People suffering from anxiety disorders such as agoraphobia and social phobia experience Panic symptoms that are caused by certain situations. A sufferer of social phobia is afraid of being in situations when he or she is at the focus of a group, like public speaking for example. 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.
In some cases this disorder is found to be caused by a genetic factor and might exist in several members in a family. Many experts believe that anyone can potentially develop social phobia. Very shy children and those that suffer abuse are at a greater risk of developing social anxiety disorder. But even into adulthood, people are still at risk.
Agoraphobia is a relatively common condition that for reasons unknown affect twice the amount of women as men. 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.
This disorder sometime gets mistaken as social anxiety for obvious reasons. It was once considered that panic attacks were only related to panic disorder; another anxiety disorder. However many studies have shown that people with agoraphobia do not necessarily have a history of 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.
When a full blown attack occurs, a sufferer might hyperventilate and experience derealization which is extremely distressing. 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. Sufferers are at an increased risk of developing depression. A high proportion of male sufferers turn to alcohol as a way to cope with panic symptoms.
Even though anxiety disorders are highly under recognized there is Anxiety help and treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is being increasingly used over medicine. Changes to lifestyle to improve overall health can make difference too. Also self help techniques including EFT, visualization and relaxation techniques very helpful.
Some agoraphobes may avoid going to see a doctor for anxiety help because they simply can’t do it. This is a catch 22 problem that doesn’t have much of a solution. Needless to say however, it’s vital to get expert help. It would be a good idea to have someone to support you on your visit.
Therapies are often designed to expose to your fears gradually. This in effect reconditions negative learnt behaviors. Support groups are also available and can be a helpful addition to therapy. Talking about problems and giving support to others can often help with recovery. Online forums for anxiety disorders are another source of help and support.
Anxiety Self Help - Learn How To Cope With Anxiety
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