Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia causes strong fear in situations where escape or getting help seems difficult, such as transport, shops, queues or open spaces. Avoidance restricts life. Cognitive behavioural therapy with gradual exposure often helps considerably.

• Strong fear of transport, shops, cinemas, queues, open spaces or going out alone.
• Palpitations, sweating, trembling, breathlessness, dizziness or nausea in feared situations.
• With a therapist, list situations from easy to difficult and practise gradually.
• Stay in a safe practice situation long enough to notice that fear can decrease without escaping.
• Make an appointment if fear or avoidance persists or limits work, caring responsibilities and relationships.
• For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.