What Is Agoraphobia?

Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder in which patients fear situations where they perceive escape to be difficult. This anxiety may cause them to avoid situations such as driving, going to the movies, taking an elevator, flying on a plane, or entering crowded spaces.

When confronted with such scenarios, an individual suffering from agoraphobia may experience panic-like symptoms.  Often, being accompanied by others can help ease these feelings.  However, in more severe cases, a patient may restrict themselves to staying in the areas with which they are most familiar and feel the most comfortable, such as their home.  In many patients, other anxiety disorders accompany agoraphobia.