Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia Definition and Situations

Agoraphobia

  • Marked fear or anxiety for more than 6 months about two or more of the following 5 situations:
    • Using public transportation
    • Being in open spaces
    • Being in enclosed spaces
    • Standing in line or being in a crowd
    • Being outside of the home alone

Agoraphobia - Further Criteria

Agoraphobia

  • The individual fears or avoids these situations because escape might be difficult or help might not be available
  • The agoraphobic situations almost always provoke anxiety
  • Anxiety is out of proportion to the actual threat posed by the situation
  • The agoraphobic situations are avoided or endured with intense anxiety
  • The avoidance, fear or anxiety significantly interferes with their routine or function