Agoraphobia And Panic Symptoms During Group Talks
People suffering from anxiety disorders such as agoraphobia and social phobia experience panic symptoms that are caused by certain situations. Social anxiety is a condition where a person has extreme fears of social situations such as introducing themselves to a new class and even making a call to a stranger. The thought of making a fool of themselves in front of other people creates such fear that they will try and do anything to get out of it.
People who have this disorder are likely to have a family member with the same disorder. Professionals have come to the conclusion that social anxiety is a learned habit which can affect anyone. Bullied or abused children are much more likely to develop this disorder. But even into adulthood, people are still at risk.
Another anxiety disorder that seems to be twice as prevalent in women is agoraphobia. Agoraphobes are petrified of having a panic attack in a place where they can be seen. Busy places and environments where easy escape is not possible are often feared the most. Being at a group seminar, waiting at a bus stop and even going to the supermarket can trigger attacks.
Misdiagnosis can sometimes occur since this disorder shares some similarities with social anxiety. Panic attacks, were once considered only occurring in those with panic disorder. This is now not the case since studies have shown that many agoraphobes do not have panic disorder.
There is also a slight difference with panic attacks in those with panic disorder, in that they’re unpredictable. Unlike agoraphobia Panic symptoms trigger when the sufferer experiences a fear associated with their condition such as going to the supermarket. At the start of an attack a sufferer may experience these panic symptoms; trembling and an accelerated heart rate and sweating.
A sufferer’s condition can quickly deteriorate and they might experience more frightening symptoms such as hyperventilation and depersonalization. In severe cases some people may become homebound unable to even venture past their doorsteps without experiencing panic symptoms. This makes life very difficult to cope with.
Daily routine is restricted and most sufferers feel alone and highly depressed. Agoraphobes find it difficult to build relationships and hold a job. Depression is highly common in those with agoraphobia. A high proportion of male sufferers turn to alcohol as a way to cope with panic symptoms.
Although some anxiety disorders have only recently been discovered there is Anxiety Help available. Medication is available as well as therapies such as CBT and alternative therapies such as hypnosis. Changes to lifestyle to improve overall health can make difference too. In addition incorporating self help techniques such as EFT and NLP can dramatically improve symptoms.
Some agoraphobes may avoid going to see a doctor for anxiety help because they simply can’t do it. This dilemma means that potentially thousands or millions are not treated. However, it’s important to seek professional anxiety help for proper diagnosis and effective treatment. If you find it difficult to seek help alone, go with someone you know.
Treatment often involves gradual controlled confrontation of your fears. This can promote positive behavioral changes when done correctly. As well as therapy, some sufferers find support groups helpful. Getting support and supporting other sufferers can make one feel less alone. Online forums for anxiety disorders are another source of help and support.