Agoraphobia literally means fear of “open spaces or ‘fear of the market place’.  However, Agoraphobics are not necessarily afraid of open spaces. Agoraphobia is a condition in which a person begins to avoid spaces or situations associated with anxiety. This anxiety disorder involves the fear of experiencing a panic attack in a place or situation from which escape may be difficult or embarrassing. ”Phobic situations” might include driving, shopping, crowded places, traveling, being alone, and social gatherings. People suffering from agoraphobia sometimes fear that they are “losing” their mind or “going crazy” because of their fears and anxiety.

Persons with agoraphobia may also develop fatigue, tension, alcohol or drug abuse problems, and obsessive disorders, making seeking treatment crucial.

Symptoms of agoraphobia can range from mild feelings of discomfort or anxiety in large, crowded spaces, to intense fear and panic attacks People with agoraphobia may feel anxious about such things as loss of bladder or bowel control or choking on food in the presence of others. People with the disorder often become so disabled that they literally feel they cannot leave their homes.

Agoraphobia is diagnosed by taking a careful personal history from the client/patient. There are no laboratory tests required to confirm a diagnosis of agoraphobia nor are there any physical conditions that must be met. Researchers estimate it occurs in less than 1 percent to almost 7 percent of the population and that it is specifically thought to be grossly under diagnosed.