Why does agoraphobia develop

In some cases, the condition can be so severe that people avoid doing daily activities, such as going to the bank or grocery store, and stay inside their homes most of the day.

About 40 percent of cases are considered severe. When the condition is more advanced, agoraphobia can be very disabling. This can interfere with their personal relationships and performance at work or school. Treatment can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Depending on the severity of your condition, treatment may consist of therapy, medications, and lifestyle remedies.

Agoraphobia often coincides with panic attacks. Panic attacks are a series of symptoms that sometimes occur in people with anxiety and other mental health disorders. Panic attacks can include a wide range of severe physical symptoms, such as:. People with agoraphobia may experience panic attacks whenever they enter a stressful or uncomfortable situation, which further enhances their fear of being in an uncomfortable situation.

However, there are several factors that are known to increase your risk of developing agoraphobia. These include having:. Agoraphobia is also more common in women than in men. It usually begins in young adulthood, with 20 years being the average age of onset. However, symptoms of the condition can emerge at any age. Agoraphobia is diagnosed based on symptoms and signs. Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, including when they started and how often you experience them. They may also perform blood tests to help rule out physical causes for your symptoms.

This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:. You can help your child overcome anxiety by taking their fears seriously and encouraging them to talk about their feelings.

Anxiety disorders are common mental health problems that affect many people. Anxiety disorders are common, affecting about one in ten with persistent, excessive worrying that can hinder their ability to function. They may worry constantly about things that do not warrant it or that may never happen.

In this video clip, participants discuss the various forms of treatment and support they have received from medical professionals as well as from other sources. Some of the strategies for managing anxiety are explored, including techniques such as physical activity, breathing exercises, and sticking to a routine. With appropriate treatment, it is possible to overcome claustrophobia or any other phobia. Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional.

The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances.

The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. Skip to main content. Home Anxiety. Actions for this page Listen Print. There are a number of theories about the type of biological factors that may be involved with panic disorders.

These are outlined below. One theory is panic disorder is closely associated with your body's natural "fight or flight" reflex — its way of protecting you from stressful and dangerous situations. Anxiety and fear cause your body to release hormones, such as adrenaline, and your breathing and heart rate are increased. This is your body's natural way of preparing itself for a dangerous or stressful situation.

In people with panic disorder, it's thought the fight or flight reflex may be triggered wrongly, resulting in a panic attack. Another theory is an imbalance in levels of neurotransmitters in the brain can affect mood and behaviour. This can lead to a heightened stress response in certain situations, triggering the feelings of panic.

Overview - Agoraphobia. Someone with agoraphobia may be scared of: travelling on public transport visiting a shopping centre leaving home If someone with agoraphobia finds themselves in a stressful situation, they'll usually experience the symptoms of a panic attack , such as: rapid heartbeat rapid breathing hyperventilating feeling hot and sweaty feeling sick They'll avoid situations that cause anxiety and may only leave the house with a friend or partner.

What causes agoraphobia? Diagnosing agoraphobia Speak to your GP if you think you may be affected by agoraphobia. Your GP may ask you the following questions: Do you find leaving the house stressful? Are there certain places or situations you have to avoid?

Do you have any avoidance strategies to help you cope with your symptoms, such as relying on others to shop for you? Treating agoraphobia Lifestyle changes may help, including taking regular exercise , eating more healthily , and avoiding alcohol, drugs and drinks that contain caffeine, such as tea, coffee and cola. If your agoraphobia fails to respond to these treatment methods see your GP.

Outlook Around a third of people with agoraphobia eventually achieve a complete cure and remain free from symptoms. How common is agoraphobia? Agoraphobia is twice as common in women as men.