Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. In fact, some may confuse this new anxiety with agoraphobia , an anxiety disorder in which people feel extreme fear, causing them to avoid places or situations that make them feel embarrassed, helpless, or threatened.
The anxiety associated with both agoraphobia and the ongoing pandemic can be paralyzing, causing people to feel afraid of common daily activities like being in a store, riding public transportation or being in crowds like at a sporting event or concert.
But there are differences between the two conditions even as both can make going out again can seem like an insurmountable obstacle. Why does this happen and how can we best help those who may be dealing with this disorder?
To find out, we spoke with psychiatrist Amit Anand, MD, about the difference between agoraphobia and this pandemic-related anxiety and how each can be handled. Anand says. While there is certainly overlap between the fear of returning to public places due to the virus and agoraphobia, there are some key differences as well. Anand continues. But by the time I was off to drama school, I was feeling better, thanks to some CBT and beta-blockers.
I was confident it was all behind me and excited about what lay ahead. The nerves I experienced that day, as everyone assured me, were normal. That was the moment my world shrunk smaller than the set of The Truman Show. The moment I became agoraphobic. And 25 years later — I still am. Although true, that is a simplistic description of a complex beast whose manifestation is particular to each person.
It can morph and shapeshift. Worlds can shrink and enlarge like pufferfish. It is, ultimately, a fear of fear. When not in the throes of a deadly pandemic, I do go out. I love going out and about. Some nearer destinations are out of bounds or a scarier prospect than somewhere further yet familiar.
But to clarify, none are far from my house. The only thing worse than a journey is a journey with bad traffic. The vision of red brake lights ahead is a certain trigger. At Banyan Mental Health, we offer a variety of mental health programs in Boca that are led by licensed therapists and staff with extensive experience in treating mental disorders like anxiety.
If you or someone you know requires treatment for a mental illness, call us now at to learn how we can help. Dangers of a Misdiagnosed Mental Disorder May 4, How to Help Someone with Agoraphobia. Living with anxiety can be stressful; having a loved one who suffers from an anxiety disorder can be just as challenging.
What Is Agoraphobia? Common agoraphobia symptoms and signs include: Avoiding certain places or situations Stress or fear upon leaving the house or in certain situations Panic attacks in certain places or situations Physical symptoms like excessive sweating, trouble breathing, shaking, and chest pains during a panic attack Individuals with agoraphobia often benefit the most from professional treatment.
Tips on How to Help Someone with Agoraphobia No one wants to go through life fearful of certain situations or places. Learn More About Agoraphobia The first step in helping someone with agoraphobia is to learn more about it. Learn How to Be Patient Patience is the key to helping an individual with any mental illness. Check In Regularly Call them or visit them regularly. Help Them Find Treatment Help them find treatment. After overcoming her own struggles with addiction, she began working in the treatment field in A part of the Banyan team since , Alyssa brings over 5 years of experience in the addiction treatment field.
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