Agoraphobia Explained - Beyond The Fear of Open Spaces

Mental illness is a popular subject with more and more people being diagnosed with all forms of anxiety disorders. These disorders are confusing and lead many feeling ashamed, but there's nothing to feel ashamed about. Anxiety disorders are malfunctions of the neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically Serotonin, not shyness or simple embarrassment. A specific type of anxiety disorder is Agoraphobia. Being diagnosed myself this past year has me concerned about educating others about this disease.

Defined as having a fear of an embarrassing situation or open spaces this illness can lead to a person becoming so overwhelmed with anxiety they never leave their house. Agoraphobia can even lead to being trapped within a room inside the house. It can be compared to as the opposite of claustrophobia. As Agoraphobia is an English adoption of the Greek words agora and phobos, literally translated as "a fear of the marketplace."

Symptoms include panic attacks which are random acts of extreme fear that paralyze. Some attacks consist of nausea and vomiting or trembling. All attacks are not created equal some last for minutes or others last hours. My attacks generally last minutes with vomiting, trembling, and lack of breath. Having a panic attack in line at the grocery store could lead to avoidance of the supermarket. Attacks happening suddenly while asleep isn't unheard of either. The avoidance of situations that cause panic attacks may become harmful as time goes on.

Treatment is usually sought out from a general practicer or a therapist. A general practicer usually asks about symptoms and may prescribe an antidepressant like Zoloft, commonly known as a SSRI, which allows the Serotonin in the brain to flow easily without being absorbed. I take Sertraline which is the generic name of Zoloft. Side effects of this drug are mild and only lasts a few days. I had headaches and some stomach trouble, but nothing too extreme. A therapist focuses on teaching the patient to deal with the panic attacks and prescribes medication when necessary.

It is very wise to consult a physician if panic attacks start forming. They occur more commonly in females in their twenty's then men in general. Anxiety is caused by so many different factors work, home, kids, bills, ect. If anxiety starts to alter functioning then action needs to be taken. Life is much better since I received help from my doctor and started medication. If you suspect you may have this condition please see a professional.