Agoraphobia
2-minute read
What is agoraphobia?
Agoraphobia is often thought to mean that people are afraid of 'open spaces', but this is only half the story. Many people with panic disorder avoid situations because of their fears. This avoidance is known as agoraphobia.
Signs and symptoms of agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is linked to panic disorder and also belongs to a group of conditions called specific phobias.
People with specific phobias might also practise avoidance in less noticeable ways like avoiding exercise or sex. Panic and related phobias like agoraphobia can seriously impede an individual's ability to go to work or socialise with friends and family.
Signs of agoraphobia include:
- avoiding situations because of concern you’ll have a panic attack, or only going with someone who you think can help you if you do have a panic attack
- experiencing anxiety or fear about being in places where escape might be difficult, such as public transport or in large crowds at a concert
- feeling anxious or panic when you can’t avoid certain situations.
More information
- Find out more about specific phobias.
- Check out a personal story on recovering from agoraphobia.
Not sure what to do next?
If you or someone you know are finding it difficult to manage mental health issues, try healthdirect’s symptom checker and get advice on when to seek professional help.
The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000).
Last reviewed: July 2017
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Agoraphobia - Better Health Channel
A person with agoraphobia is afraid to leave familiar environments, because they are afraid of having a panic attack.
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What is agoraphobia? | Anxiety | ReachOut Australia
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterised by a fear of having a panic attack in a situation that is difficult to escape from or where help may not be available.
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Department of Health | What is panic disorder and agoraphobia?
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