Agoraphobia

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to help the phobic person function effectively. The success of treatment usually depends upon the severity of the phobia.

Systematic desensitization is a behavioral technique used to treat phobias. It is based upon having the person relax, then imagine the components of the phobia, working from the least fearful to the most fearful. Graded real-life exposure has also been used with success to help people overcome their fears.

Antianxiety and antidepressive medications are sometimes used to help relieve the symptoms associated with phobias. Dependency on the medication is a possible side effect of this treatment.

Expectations (prognosis):

Phobias tend to be chronic and resistant to treatment.

Complications:

Some phobias may have consequences that affect job performance or social functioning.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms suggestive of agoraphobia develop.