The fear of crowded public places is a symptom of agoraphobia, a type of anxiety disorder. The person often avoids crowded places such as shopping centers, elevators, airplanes and public transportation. In extreme cases, people never leave their home, as it remains the only place that feels safe. Mayoclinic.com describes treatment as challenging because agoraphobia patients must fully confront their fears. Still, the clinic states that successful treatment does occur and many people learn to keep their fears under control.
Education
The Cleveland Clinic suggests that all patients with anxiety disorders learn fully about their diagnosis. Family and close friends should also be educated on the diagnosis. Learning about the condition reassures the patient that he is not alone, that other people have the same condition and that treatment does exist. Patients should understand that over 1.8 million Americans suffer from the condition and onset is commonly seen in the mid 20s. A medical professional may conduct a physical exam to rule out any other disorders. Establishing a medical plan is critical for appropriate treatment to ensue.
Medications
Antidepressant and antianxiety medications commonly treat agoraphobia, reports MayoClinic.com. Common antidepressants include fluoxetine, paroxetine and sertraline, which are classified as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. According to the Cleveland Clinic, improvement is often seen within three to four weeks, otherwise a dose increase is suggested. Patients often begin SSRIs on low doses and increase dosages gradually; common side effects include panic-like symptoms when starting or stopping the medications suddenly. Other types of antidepressants include tricyclic antidepressants or monoamine oxidase inhibitors. However, these medications cause more side effects than SSSRIs. Medical professionals often prescribe anti-anxiety medications such as alprazolam and clonazepam. Taking anti-anxiety medications for a long period in high doses may cause dependence.
Therapy
Cognitive-behavior therapy remains a common type of treatment for agoraphobia. Between 10 and 20 visits with a mental health professional are typical over a number of weeks. The therapy focuses on patients challenging and thinking about their fears. They learn how to replace thoughts and feelings that may bring on a panic attack, and they learn relaxation and stress reducing techniques such as deep breathing and meditation.
Patients confront their fears during the behavioral portion of therapy. A medical professional may accompany a patient to the mall, on an elevator or even to a movie in a method known as exposure therapy. Patients learn to face their fears, overcome them and realize they are safe in their environment.
