In my last post I started to talk about the treatment of Agoraphobia and I said we would investigate further the use of therapy as a means of effecting a cure. I also stated that many people with agoraphobia by the very nature of their condition would find it impossible to visit a therapist. The following piece is written by J J seymour a writer with Self Help Recordings.
J J Seymour states that Hypnotherapy and NLP can be very useful Agoraphobia Help - one good source of experienced hypnotherapists and NLP practitioners is Just Be Well. This organization has experienced professionals throughout the UK in London, Birmingham, Bristol, Buckinghamshire, East Anglia, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle, Surrey, Sussex and Scotland. You will also find links to related practitioners for treatment for agoraphobia in Vancouver and Toronto, Canada, for Dublin, Ireland, and for Sydney, Melbourne and Perth in Australia. If you are unable to visit a practitioner in person you may well benefit from a good and guaranteed self hypnosis recording such as Stop Fear, by experienced hypnotherapist Duncan McColl.
How to Overcome Agoraphobia and Get Out There EasilyBy
Approximately 5% of the US population needed or sought agoraphobia help at some point in their lives according to research from America's National Institute of Mental Health. What is agoraphobia? In Greek, the word literally means "fear of the marketplace." In reality, sufferers of this common social anxiety fear entering almost any new situation, especially one in which they feel they might lack control or safety. Some agoraphobics fear crowds or places of bustling social activity (such as at a marketplace). Some fear public transportation. Some begin to panic when they find themselves in the middle of large, open spaces. In extreme cases, agoraphobics refuse to leave their homes altogether, preferring to live, work, and socialize without ever leaving their "safety zone."
Fear Of Going Out Restricts Lives
Agoraphobia can be summarized as the "fear of going out." Unfortunately for its sufferers, being able to go out into society, and into unfamiliar situations, is a vital part off living and functioning in the world. True, some sufferers are perfectly content to spend their lives at home. However, most wish that they could participate in the world more than they do. They feel restricted by the panic that overtakes them whenever they go to a new place by themselves. This inability to go to crowded or highly public places can lead to feelings of isolation and depression. These sufferers wish there was a way to stop fear of going out from interfering with the lives they'd like to lead.
Treatments To Stop Fear
There are a number of treatments out there for this frustrating and crippling anxiety disorder. Some sufferers have resorted to pharmaceuticals, including MAO inhibitors and anti-depressants to reduce the incidence of panic attacks--physiological states in which the fear or crowds or opens spaces triggers a "fight or flight" response in the body. Some sufferers of agoraphobia have joined support groups, hoping that being able to talk about their problems to fellow suffers will alleviate them.
NLP And Hypnotherapy Provide Effective Agoraphobia Help
The most effective sources of agoraphobia help are treatments that involve cognitive restructuring. NLP (neuro-linguistic programming) and hypnotherapy techniques fall under this category of treatments, and they can yield surprisingly fast and invariably effective results without ever resorting to pills (which can be expensive, difficult to obtain, and can cause unwanted side effects).
NLP techniques teach you to recognize the unconscious, seemingly automatic thought processes that lead to the onset of panic attacks. Gradually, you'll learn to be in control when you enter situations that trigger your condition. NLP and hypnotherapy techniques will re-train your unconscious mind. They will replace irrational, unhelpful thought processes (such as frantically looking for exits, or fearing the onset of panic attacks) with more sensible, helpful ones. NLP and hypnotherapy can provide substantial agoraphobia help after just 2-4 therapy sessions.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=J_J_Seymour
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Overcome-Agoraphobia-and-Get-Out-There-Easily&id=1562149
Friday, November 28, 2008
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Treatment of Agoraphobia
Advances in the understanding and treatment of Agoraphobia have been made since the days when my mother suffered from it most severely. I feel that back then, the doctors failed to understand the condition, and the few times she actually consulted with a psychiatric specialist they simply talked about what might be wrong, but failed to provide any actual help or support.
Now the treatment for agoraphobia will almost invariably involve psychotherapy. To be more specific, a type of therapy known as cognitive behaviour therapy, commonly referred to as CBT. In addition anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medicines can also be used to help relieve the symptoms of agoraphobia.
It is my understanding that in recent years, cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) has achieved some success in treating people with agoraphobia. It works on the principle that the way you feel is in part dependent on the way you perceive things. In earlier posts we looked at how an agoraphobic will think that a panic attack will occur if they are in a certain environment outside of their comfort zone. Cognitive delivered exposure is designed to put the person into the very situation they are afraid of, but with support, so that they can live through the situation with the realisation that their fear was in fact unfounded.
Many psychologists describe agoraphobic thought and behaviour as a vicious circle. This occurs because the person is afraid that if they put themselves into the situation that they fear then they will have a panic attack. As a result, they avoid putting themselves into that situation. Because of this the anxieties are not resolved, but instead become worse, leading to an increased fear of having a panic attack. The vicious circle keeps revolving but it's intensity or effect becomes worse. Cognitive delivered exposure attempts to break the vicious circle by placing the patient into real-life environments.
I have recently read a report where the use of cognitive delivered exposure was described thus; "if you were worried that you would hyperventilate if you had to walk to the corner shop, your therapist would accompany you to the corner shop to see if this was the case."
Wow - a therapist that would walk to the corner shop with you. Are they living in the real world? That would truly be a far cry from the treatment that my dear old mum got.
However, the principle seems sound and is used to overcome many forms of phobia. It basically means to expose the person to the very thing that they fear, but in a controlled and supportive way.
The person who fears that they would experience a panic attack if they walked to the corner shop, can indeed be helped if they are accompanied by a friend or helper (if not a professional therapist). The first steps should involve only short journeys, it will feel less scary for them if they remain close to their "safe zone". the process should be approached slowly and with constant support. Often, people's perceived predictions of how they will react in certain situations are a lot worse than how they actually react.
Cognitive delivered exposure should begin by setting small goals before moving on to more ambitious tasks which are complete by the person alone as their confidence increases.
Therapists are aware that many people with agoraphobia by the very nature of their condition would find it impossible to visit a therapist so they will arrange home visits. Also, an increasing number of effective programmes can be conducted via the Internet, or through the use of interactive software. We will investigate these further next time.
Now the treatment for agoraphobia will almost invariably involve psychotherapy. To be more specific, a type of therapy known as cognitive behaviour therapy, commonly referred to as CBT. In addition anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medicines can also be used to help relieve the symptoms of agoraphobia.
It is my understanding that in recent years, cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) has achieved some success in treating people with agoraphobia. It works on the principle that the way you feel is in part dependent on the way you perceive things. In earlier posts we looked at how an agoraphobic will think that a panic attack will occur if they are in a certain environment outside of their comfort zone. Cognitive delivered exposure is designed to put the person into the very situation they are afraid of, but with support, so that they can live through the situation with the realisation that their fear was in fact unfounded.
Many psychologists describe agoraphobic thought and behaviour as a vicious circle. This occurs because the person is afraid that if they put themselves into the situation that they fear then they will have a panic attack. As a result, they avoid putting themselves into that situation. Because of this the anxieties are not resolved, but instead become worse, leading to an increased fear of having a panic attack. The vicious circle keeps revolving but it's intensity or effect becomes worse. Cognitive delivered exposure attempts to break the vicious circle by placing the patient into real-life environments.
I have recently read a report where the use of cognitive delivered exposure was described thus; "if you were worried that you would hyperventilate if you had to walk to the corner shop, your therapist would accompany you to the corner shop to see if this was the case."
Wow - a therapist that would walk to the corner shop with you. Are they living in the real world? That would truly be a far cry from the treatment that my dear old mum got.
However, the principle seems sound and is used to overcome many forms of phobia. It basically means to expose the person to the very thing that they fear, but in a controlled and supportive way.
The person who fears that they would experience a panic attack if they walked to the corner shop, can indeed be helped if they are accompanied by a friend or helper (if not a professional therapist). The first steps should involve only short journeys, it will feel less scary for them if they remain close to their "safe zone". the process should be approached slowly and with constant support. Often, people's perceived predictions of how they will react in certain situations are a lot worse than how they actually react.
Cognitive delivered exposure should begin by setting small goals before moving on to more ambitious tasks which are complete by the person alone as their confidence increases.
Therapists are aware that many people with agoraphobia by the very nature of their condition would find it impossible to visit a therapist so they will arrange home visits. Also, an increasing number of effective programmes can be conducted via the Internet, or through the use of interactive software. We will investigate these further next time.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
What is Agoraphobia? - A laymans View
A phobia to put it in simple terms, is a fear of something. Agora comes from the Greek language, and refers to a place where people meet, or more specifically a marketplace. From this we see that agoraphobia is the fear of being in crowded or open spaces.
Agoraphobia is often thought of as the fear of being out in the open, but that isn't strictly correct. People suffering from agoraphobia are quite often more fearful of places where they feel crowded or "hemmed in", as my mother described it, where getting away would be difficult.
A person with agoraphobia is usually reluctant to leave their house, this is their safe territory. This supports the belief that it is not simply being outdoors that frightens the people affected by the condition. Situations such as being in a crowded building, a large exposed place, or any unfamiliar territory can be intensely disturbing to someone with agoraphobia. It is mostly associated with being unable to get to a safe location, or the feeling of being exposed and unprotected, being away from their comfort zone. Because of this a return to familiar territory and normality, may often relieve the symptoms of an agoraphobia related panic attack.
The effects of agoraphobia can range from mild feelings of discomfort or anxiety, to intense fear and panic attacks. Agoraphobia is actually diagnosed differently according to whether the patient experiences panic disorders or not. In fact, many different psychological disorders can share symptoms with agoraphobia, such as a social phobia, separation anxiety disorder (usually in children), and depression.
Overcoming or learning to live with Agoraphobia is a long process, but is one that can be achieved or at least made manageable.
Agoraphobia is often thought of as the fear of being out in the open, but that isn't strictly correct. People suffering from agoraphobia are quite often more fearful of places where they feel crowded or "hemmed in", as my mother described it, where getting away would be difficult.
A person with agoraphobia is usually reluctant to leave their house, this is their safe territory. This supports the belief that it is not simply being outdoors that frightens the people affected by the condition. Situations such as being in a crowded building, a large exposed place, or any unfamiliar territory can be intensely disturbing to someone with agoraphobia. It is mostly associated with being unable to get to a safe location, or the feeling of being exposed and unprotected, being away from their comfort zone. Because of this a return to familiar territory and normality, may often relieve the symptoms of an agoraphobia related panic attack.
The effects of agoraphobia can range from mild feelings of discomfort or anxiety, to intense fear and panic attacks. Agoraphobia is actually diagnosed differently according to whether the patient experiences panic disorders or not. In fact, many different psychological disorders can share symptoms with agoraphobia, such as a social phobia, separation anxiety disorder (usually in children), and depression.
Overcoming or learning to live with Agoraphobia is a long process, but is one that can be achieved or at least made manageable.
Monday, November 10, 2008
What-is-Agoraphobia - article 2
What is Agoraphobia?
By Stephen Price
Most people have heard of most phobias. Mention claustrophobia, social phobia, or arachnophobia and everyone pretty much knows what you are talking about. Mention agoraphobia, and most people will just shake their heads.
Because of this, many people who get agoraphobia often take a year, and in some cases, many years, just finding out what is wrong with them. Since the panic and anxiety symptoms that come with agoraphobia are so physical, people who get agoraphobia commonly visit a succession of doctors trying in search of a diagnosis. Since medical doctors are not usually trained to diagnose agoraphobia, let alone anxiety disorders, agoraphobia has had time to become deeply rooted in most people before they know enough about the disorder to seek the proper treatment and being recovery.
In light of this, here are some basics about agoraphobia:
Agoraphobia is "anxiety about, or avoidance of, places or situations from which escape might be difficult (or embarrassing) or in which help may not be available in the event of having a panic attack or panic-like symptoms.” (DSM-IV)
Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder. The term “agoraphobia” comes from the Greek words agora (αγορά), meaning “marketplace,” and phobia (φόβος), meaning “fear.” Literally translated as “fear of the marketplace,” people with agoraphobia are afraid of open or public spaces.
In reality, most people with agoraphobia are not so much afraid of open and public places as they are afraid of having a panic attack in these settings, especially settings in which there may be no one to help in the case of a panic attack or actual emergency.
The most common symptoms of agoraphobia are:
1) Panic Attacks: Periods of intense fear, usually lasting about ten minutes or so (but sometimes longer).
2) Avoidance Behavior: Avoiding places and situations that are hard to escape from or that might be embarrassing to have to suddenly leave. Most commonly, this is because they fear having a panic attack or unexpected catastrophe and not being able to get help or get away.
3) Developing "Safe" People: People with whom the agoraphobic is highly familiar with and feels emotionally close to. “Safe” people are usually parents, spouses, children, or close friends and relatives.
4) Developing "Safe" Places: Places in which the agoraphobic feels psychologically comfortable. The most common safe place for someone with agoraphobia is his or her own home.
5) Scanning: Obsessive monitoring of one's own body for strange or unusual symptoms.
6) Fear of being alone: This is related to the fear of having no one to help in the case of a panic attack or real emergency.
If you suspect that you or someone you know might have agoraphobia, don’t waste any time in learning about the disorder. Research has shown that the sooner you start the recovery process the more likely your chances of a successful recovery are.
You can learn more about recovery online at www.agoraphobia.ws the Agoraphobia Resource Center website. The site was started by a recovered agoraphobic with the intention of helping others learn about and recover from agoraphobia.
Stephen Price is a recovered agoraphobic. Since his recovery, he has devoted himself to the study of agoraphobia and to helping others overcome the disorder. Since his recovery, Stephen has earned masters degrees in psychology and counseling and has published original research on anxiety.
Contact:
Stephen Price
Agoraphobia Resource Center
http://www.agoraphobia.ws
559-322-6898
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Price
http://EzineArticles.com/?What-is-Agoraphobia?&id=190592
>
By Stephen Price
Most people have heard of most phobias. Mention claustrophobia, social phobia, or arachnophobia and everyone pretty much knows what you are talking about. Mention agoraphobia, and most people will just shake their heads.
Because of this, many people who get agoraphobia often take a year, and in some cases, many years, just finding out what is wrong with them. Since the panic and anxiety symptoms that come with agoraphobia are so physical, people who get agoraphobia commonly visit a succession of doctors trying in search of a diagnosis. Since medical doctors are not usually trained to diagnose agoraphobia, let alone anxiety disorders, agoraphobia has had time to become deeply rooted in most people before they know enough about the disorder to seek the proper treatment and being recovery.
In light of this, here are some basics about agoraphobia:
Agoraphobia is "anxiety about, or avoidance of, places or situations from which escape might be difficult (or embarrassing) or in which help may not be available in the event of having a panic attack or panic-like symptoms.” (DSM-IV)
Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder. The term “agoraphobia” comes from the Greek words agora (αγορά), meaning “marketplace,” and phobia (φόβος), meaning “fear.” Literally translated as “fear of the marketplace,” people with agoraphobia are afraid of open or public spaces.
In reality, most people with agoraphobia are not so much afraid of open and public places as they are afraid of having a panic attack in these settings, especially settings in which there may be no one to help in the case of a panic attack or actual emergency.
The most common symptoms of agoraphobia are:
1) Panic Attacks: Periods of intense fear, usually lasting about ten minutes or so (but sometimes longer).
2) Avoidance Behavior: Avoiding places and situations that are hard to escape from or that might be embarrassing to have to suddenly leave. Most commonly, this is because they fear having a panic attack or unexpected catastrophe and not being able to get help or get away.
3) Developing "Safe" People: People with whom the agoraphobic is highly familiar with and feels emotionally close to. “Safe” people are usually parents, spouses, children, or close friends and relatives.
4) Developing "Safe" Places: Places in which the agoraphobic feels psychologically comfortable. The most common safe place for someone with agoraphobia is his or her own home.
5) Scanning: Obsessive monitoring of one's own body for strange or unusual symptoms.
6) Fear of being alone: This is related to the fear of having no one to help in the case of a panic attack or real emergency.
If you suspect that you or someone you know might have agoraphobia, don’t waste any time in learning about the disorder. Research has shown that the sooner you start the recovery process the more likely your chances of a successful recovery are.
You can learn more about recovery online at www.agoraphobia.ws the Agoraphobia Resource Center website. The site was started by a recovered agoraphobic with the intention of helping others learn about and recover from agoraphobia.
Stephen Price is a recovered agoraphobic. Since his recovery, he has devoted himself to the study of agoraphobia and to helping others overcome the disorder. Since his recovery, Stephen has earned masters degrees in psychology and counseling and has published original research on anxiety.
Contact:
Stephen Price
Agoraphobia Resource Center
http://www.agoraphobia.ws
559-322-6898
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Price
http://EzineArticles.com/?What-is-Agoraphobia?&id=190592
>
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Overcome Agoraphobia - article 2
Overcome Agoraphobia
By Peter Nagy
Many of us have heard of mental disorders, and most of us think that only certain people become afflicted with these conditions. However this is simply not the case. Mental disorders include panic attacks, anxiety disorders and social anxieties as well. These attacks can range from mild discomfort to debilitating agoraphobia and this is a condition that can strike anyone.
Your life is going along the normal path that you've set out when suddenly without any warning terror has you in its grip. You feel weak and helpless. Your heart's pounding and you have trouble breathing. You may even wonder if you're having a heart attack or if you're about to die. When you finally go to see a doctor, you might even be told there's nothing physically wrong with you.
So when you next suffer from an attack you wonder what's wrong with you. You find that certain situations will bring on these frightening attacks and this will be your first clue that you're experiencing a panic attack. Panic attacks are not physical conditions, and that is why your doctor might have had trouble diagnosing your complaint.
So, what is agoraphobia you might ask? This is a condition where an individual doesn't wish to go places or face situations where they could become exposed to panic attacks. The very word agoraphobia itself lets us know the nature of this debilitating condition. 'Agora' comes from the Greek language and it means places where people meet, or a marketplace. 'Phobia' is a fear of something. Thus we can understand that people who suffer from agoraphobia have a fear of being in crowded places.
Agoraphobia is a condition that develops gradually. In general it occurs after a panic attack. After the first attack you may subconsciously be preparing for another attack and fearing the symptoms that will leave you feeling helpless. This cycle of panic attack and impending panic attack can cause you to change your entire lifestyle just to avoid those feelings of terror. As panic attacks can occur anywhere at anytime, we generally associate the first place that we feel helpless as perhaps the reason for our terror.
An agoraphobia sufferer will go out of their way to avoid those places and situations where a panic attack may occur. They may even end up being housebound as they avoid being in crowded places. This unhealthy lifestyle can in itself trigger agoraphobic attacks to occur in everyday normal situations. The increased heart rate may also cause a panic attack because you may think that you're having a heart attack.
As you can see this is a vicious and extremely debilitating mental condition. For sufferers of panic attacks they should seek the medical aid of doctors who specialize in these mental disorders and receive treatment before their panic attacks spiral into agoraphobia where they may end up being restricted in their lifestyle due to their ever increasing fear of being helpless in the face of a panic attack.
Peter Nagy was able to beat his anxiety and now dedicates much of his time researching alternative/natural ways to be healthy.
To learn more about agoraphobia and anxiety disorder visit: --->Overcoming Agoraphobia<---
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Nagy
http://EzineArticles.com/?Overcome-Agoraphobia&id=337326
By Peter Nagy
Many of us have heard of mental disorders, and most of us think that only certain people become afflicted with these conditions. However this is simply not the case. Mental disorders include panic attacks, anxiety disorders and social anxieties as well. These attacks can range from mild discomfort to debilitating agoraphobia and this is a condition that can strike anyone.
Your life is going along the normal path that you've set out when suddenly without any warning terror has you in its grip. You feel weak and helpless. Your heart's pounding and you have trouble breathing. You may even wonder if you're having a heart attack or if you're about to die. When you finally go to see a doctor, you might even be told there's nothing physically wrong with you.
So when you next suffer from an attack you wonder what's wrong with you. You find that certain situations will bring on these frightening attacks and this will be your first clue that you're experiencing a panic attack. Panic attacks are not physical conditions, and that is why your doctor might have had trouble diagnosing your complaint.
So, what is agoraphobia you might ask? This is a condition where an individual doesn't wish to go places or face situations where they could become exposed to panic attacks. The very word agoraphobia itself lets us know the nature of this debilitating condition. 'Agora' comes from the Greek language and it means places where people meet, or a marketplace. 'Phobia' is a fear of something. Thus we can understand that people who suffer from agoraphobia have a fear of being in crowded places.
Agoraphobia is a condition that develops gradually. In general it occurs after a panic attack. After the first attack you may subconsciously be preparing for another attack and fearing the symptoms that will leave you feeling helpless. This cycle of panic attack and impending panic attack can cause you to change your entire lifestyle just to avoid those feelings of terror. As panic attacks can occur anywhere at anytime, we generally associate the first place that we feel helpless as perhaps the reason for our terror.
An agoraphobia sufferer will go out of their way to avoid those places and situations where a panic attack may occur. They may even end up being housebound as they avoid being in crowded places. This unhealthy lifestyle can in itself trigger agoraphobic attacks to occur in everyday normal situations. The increased heart rate may also cause a panic attack because you may think that you're having a heart attack.
As you can see this is a vicious and extremely debilitating mental condition. For sufferers of panic attacks they should seek the medical aid of doctors who specialize in these mental disorders and receive treatment before their panic attacks spiral into agoraphobia where they may end up being restricted in their lifestyle due to their ever increasing fear of being helpless in the face of a panic attack.
Peter Nagy was able to beat his anxiety and now dedicates much of his time researching alternative/natural ways to be healthy.
To learn more about agoraphobia and anxiety disorder visit: --->Overcoming Agoraphobia<---
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Nagy
http://EzineArticles.com/?Overcome-Agoraphobia&id=337326
Overcome Agoraphobia - article 1
How To Overcome Agoraphobia - The Disease And Its Nature
By Jeanette Pollock
We hear of mental disorders yet calm ourselves by believing that it will not affect us. Panic attacks, social anxieties and anxiety problems are also forms of mental disorders. These problems can vary from being slight irritations to the unbearable agoraphobia. This is a state that can affect anyone. Hence, how to overcome agoraphobia is our primary concern.
Your life's daily routine is suddenly disrupted by a certain terror mechanism that clings to you. Your heartbeat increases, you suffer from breathing problems, you feel absolutely feeble and powerless. Its probably a heart attack or maybe I am dying- this is what crosses your mind. Your doctor will probably tell you that you are perfectly fine physically and there is actually nothing wrong with your physical system.
Thus these attacks will leave you extremely perturbed. You will notice that these alarming and scary attacks will be associated with particular incidents - this is when you will realize that you are going through a panic attack. Doctors usually fail to diagnose a panic attack immediately as they are do not affect the physical systems.
If a person keeps away from places or chooses not to confront situations that will instigate the panic attacks, the state is known as agoraphobia. The root of the word explains its nature- 'Agora" is a Greek word meaning a meeting place for people maybe a marketplace, and 'phobia' refers to a fear of something. Hence it says that agoraphobia is a condition when people suffering from it fear being in congested places.
This development occurs gradually and usually begins after a panic attack. Maybe subconsciously you will begin assimilating yourself for the next attack and also at the same time start being scared of the symptoms that leave you feeble. This whole concept of an attack and anticipating another might just lead to a radical alteration in your mode of living. You just might start doing different things in order to prevent those feelings of dread and shock. Panic attacks are most likely to take place just about anytime and in any given space- the place where the helplessness and weakness first creeps in is considered to be the cause for the terror.
People suffering from agoraphobia dislike and fear congested spaces. As a result of this they are often confined to their homes. They do everything possible to keep away from placers that might instigate a panic attack in order to overcome agoraphobia. This leads to agoraphobia attacks taking place in day-to-day life situations. Your increase in heartbeat might lead you to believe that you are experiencing a heart attack and this might cause a panic attack.
Agoraphobia is a vile and unbearable condition that affects the mind of the individual. People who suffer from panic attacks must immediately seek medical help before the panic attacks turn into a serious disorder. One needs to overcome agoraphobia as soon as possible or it will forever constrain one's lifestyle for fear of crowded spaces. This might also lead a person to become completely wrecked and inept to confront a panic situation.
Learn how to overcome agoraphobia by visiting Jeanette Pollock's website. Jeanette is an ex-panic attack sufferer and provides useful tips, advice and resources to effectively get rid of agoraphobia and panic attacks.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeanette_Pollock
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Overcome-Agoraphobia---The-Disease-And-Its-Nature&id=830499
By Jeanette Pollock
We hear of mental disorders yet calm ourselves by believing that it will not affect us. Panic attacks, social anxieties and anxiety problems are also forms of mental disorders. These problems can vary from being slight irritations to the unbearable agoraphobia. This is a state that can affect anyone. Hence, how to overcome agoraphobia is our primary concern.
Your life's daily routine is suddenly disrupted by a certain terror mechanism that clings to you. Your heartbeat increases, you suffer from breathing problems, you feel absolutely feeble and powerless. Its probably a heart attack or maybe I am dying- this is what crosses your mind. Your doctor will probably tell you that you are perfectly fine physically and there is actually nothing wrong with your physical system.
Thus these attacks will leave you extremely perturbed. You will notice that these alarming and scary attacks will be associated with particular incidents - this is when you will realize that you are going through a panic attack. Doctors usually fail to diagnose a panic attack immediately as they are do not affect the physical systems.
If a person keeps away from places or chooses not to confront situations that will instigate the panic attacks, the state is known as agoraphobia. The root of the word explains its nature- 'Agora" is a Greek word meaning a meeting place for people maybe a marketplace, and 'phobia' refers to a fear of something. Hence it says that agoraphobia is a condition when people suffering from it fear being in congested places.
This development occurs gradually and usually begins after a panic attack. Maybe subconsciously you will begin assimilating yourself for the next attack and also at the same time start being scared of the symptoms that leave you feeble. This whole concept of an attack and anticipating another might just lead to a radical alteration in your mode of living. You just might start doing different things in order to prevent those feelings of dread and shock. Panic attacks are most likely to take place just about anytime and in any given space- the place where the helplessness and weakness first creeps in is considered to be the cause for the terror.
People suffering from agoraphobia dislike and fear congested spaces. As a result of this they are often confined to their homes. They do everything possible to keep away from placers that might instigate a panic attack in order to overcome agoraphobia. This leads to agoraphobia attacks taking place in day-to-day life situations. Your increase in heartbeat might lead you to believe that you are experiencing a heart attack and this might cause a panic attack.
Agoraphobia is a vile and unbearable condition that affects the mind of the individual. People who suffer from panic attacks must immediately seek medical help before the panic attacks turn into a serious disorder. One needs to overcome agoraphobia as soon as possible or it will forever constrain one's lifestyle for fear of crowded spaces. This might also lead a person to become completely wrecked and inept to confront a panic situation.
Learn how to overcome agoraphobia by visiting Jeanette Pollock's website. Jeanette is an ex-panic attack sufferer and provides useful tips, advice and resources to effectively get rid of agoraphobia and panic attacks.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeanette_Pollock
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Overcome-Agoraphobia---The-Disease-And-Its-Nature&id=830499
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Common Symptoms of Agoraphobia
Common Symptoms of Agoraphobia
By Jeanette Pollock
Agoraphobia is often misunderstood. Many people think it is the fear of open spaces. In fact, it is not. It is typically seen as being the fear someone has of places that are often difficult to get out of if the person were to get embarrassed or simply want to leave. For instance, many people with agoraphobia are afraid to go to churches. The amount of people there is usually not the issue, as some would think. The issue and fear comes from the fact that the person would feel that they could not leave if they needed to, without drawing attention to themselves, which they would feel was embarrassing.
So, much like someone who is claustrophobic would be afraid of elevators because they feel closed in, a person with agoraphobia is afraid of being trapped or closed in by social situations.
There are many symptoms that those with agoraphobia may experience. Most of the time the initial symptom they get when they feel as if they cannot escape quickly, is panic. Just with any other panic attack, the person might feel that their heart is beating differently, they may feel flushed, may be lightheaded, may cry, or may feel tingles in their body. Many people will have twitching or other symptoms as well.
Usually these symptoms only occur when the patient is in a difficult situation or are anticipating a difficult situation. People with agoraphobia usually change their lifestyle and routine to avoid the places in which they feel these symptoms altogether. So, they may drive ten miles out of their way to a store they feel comfortable shopping in and so on.
Jeanette Pollock is a freelance author and website owner of anxietydomain.com. Visit Jeanette's site to learn more about agoraphobia symptoms.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeanette_Pollock
http://EzineArticles.com/?Common-Symptoms-of-Agoraphobia&id=319868
By Jeanette Pollock
Agoraphobia is often misunderstood. Many people think it is the fear of open spaces. In fact, it is not. It is typically seen as being the fear someone has of places that are often difficult to get out of if the person were to get embarrassed or simply want to leave. For instance, many people with agoraphobia are afraid to go to churches. The amount of people there is usually not the issue, as some would think. The issue and fear comes from the fact that the person would feel that they could not leave if they needed to, without drawing attention to themselves, which they would feel was embarrassing.
So, much like someone who is claustrophobic would be afraid of elevators because they feel closed in, a person with agoraphobia is afraid of being trapped or closed in by social situations.
There are many symptoms that those with agoraphobia may experience. Most of the time the initial symptom they get when they feel as if they cannot escape quickly, is panic. Just with any other panic attack, the person might feel that their heart is beating differently, they may feel flushed, may be lightheaded, may cry, or may feel tingles in their body. Many people will have twitching or other symptoms as well.
Usually these symptoms only occur when the patient is in a difficult situation or are anticipating a difficult situation. People with agoraphobia usually change their lifestyle and routine to avoid the places in which they feel these symptoms altogether. So, they may drive ten miles out of their way to a store they feel comfortable shopping in and so on.
Jeanette Pollock is a freelance author and website owner of anxietydomain.com. Visit Jeanette's site to learn more about agoraphobia symptoms.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeanette_Pollock
http://EzineArticles.com/?Common-Symptoms-of-Agoraphobia&id=319868
Symptoms of Agoraphobia
Symptoms of Agoraphobia
By Arman Hansen
There are many anxiety disorders and we have all probably experienced the symptoms at one time or another. Some say this is what makes us human but when they become disruptive and more frequent, we can't just let it take control of our lives and the best thing to do is find treatment.
Through the years, various drugs and therapies have been introduced and there has been a modicum of success only in some patients. The challenging part is the process. Only through trial and error will you know if it is working or not. That is only after a few months of experience.
If you are diagnosed with this illness and your first reaction is denial, you should get a second opinion before you believe it totally. But if the results are the same, then it is time to get as much information about this subject so you become informed.
This information may already prepare you for the sensations and symptoms usually felt during an attack. The symptoms you may experience when you have an anxiety disorder include apprehension, fatigue, headaches, nausea, muscle tension, rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure, abdominal pain and faintness.
While you may not always be able to prevent it from happening, you also need to learn how to calm yourself down. There are techniques that you can use like deep breathing exercises and visualization that are very useful.
From there, you can speak with your doctor about possible preventive measures. Chances are medication will be prescribed so you have to be aware of the side effects and its limitations. The drugs can only provide a short-term solution.
When looking for the right doctor, find out what medications and treatments that he or she have used in the past. It is important that you feel comfortable around this person. If something does not feel right, it is best to find someone else.
Most of the drugs on the market can only be used for a few months because you may become addicted to them. This is why the gradual reduction is done so you do no suffer from the effects of withdrawal symptoms.
The best news about agoraphobia is that they can be overcome. Once you are able to face that fear and surpass it, you will be able to live a normal life again.
If you have agoraphobia or knows someone who does, the best strategy is to take this problem one step at a time. Learn more at http://agoraphobia.relatedtips.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arman_Hansen
http://EzineArticles.com/?Symptoms-of-Agoraphobia&id=1619066
By Arman Hansen
There are many anxiety disorders and we have all probably experienced the symptoms at one time or another. Some say this is what makes us human but when they become disruptive and more frequent, we can't just let it take control of our lives and the best thing to do is find treatment.
Through the years, various drugs and therapies have been introduced and there has been a modicum of success only in some patients. The challenging part is the process. Only through trial and error will you know if it is working or not. That is only after a few months of experience.
If you are diagnosed with this illness and your first reaction is denial, you should get a second opinion before you believe it totally. But if the results are the same, then it is time to get as much information about this subject so you become informed.
This information may already prepare you for the sensations and symptoms usually felt during an attack. The symptoms you may experience when you have an anxiety disorder include apprehension, fatigue, headaches, nausea, muscle tension, rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure, abdominal pain and faintness.
While you may not always be able to prevent it from happening, you also need to learn how to calm yourself down. There are techniques that you can use like deep breathing exercises and visualization that are very useful.
From there, you can speak with your doctor about possible preventive measures. Chances are medication will be prescribed so you have to be aware of the side effects and its limitations. The drugs can only provide a short-term solution.
When looking for the right doctor, find out what medications and treatments that he or she have used in the past. It is important that you feel comfortable around this person. If something does not feel right, it is best to find someone else.
Most of the drugs on the market can only be used for a few months because you may become addicted to them. This is why the gradual reduction is done so you do no suffer from the effects of withdrawal symptoms.
The best news about agoraphobia is that they can be overcome. Once you are able to face that fear and surpass it, you will be able to live a normal life again.
If you have agoraphobia or knows someone who does, the best strategy is to take this problem one step at a time. Learn more at http://agoraphobia.relatedtips.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arman_Hansen
http://EzineArticles.com/?Symptoms-of-Agoraphobia&id=1619066
About Agoraphobia Symptoms
About Agoraphobia Symptoms
By Jeanette Pollock
Agoraphobia is perhaps the worst phobia that a person can have. It is the fear of being not only in a social setting, but also with people, themselves. Agoraphobic symptoms do not always have to be severe. They can be mild symptoms causing you to avoid certain people or places. The severe symptoms can be debilitating.
An agoraphobic with severe symptoms cannot function in a setting other then their home or safe setting. They often spend years without going outside. When they try, they suffer the most horrendous feelings of anxiety. Their lungs feel like they are collapsing, tightness overcomes their chests forcing them back into their home or whatever familiar surrounding makes them feel safe. Most often, an extremely traumatic event will trigger agoraphobic symptoms, often, if it is not treated, then the person will remain a recluse for years.
An overwhelming fear that the event will happen again will lead to agoraphobic symptoms and the person who is suffering will not leave their secure setting. Agoraphobic symptoms include the fear of socializing, rapid heartbeat when trying to leave their home or safe setting, tightness in their chest, and finally an overwhelming fear of death if they attempt to leave their safe setting. This usually drives the agoraphobic back into their home where they know they are safe. It is a devastating illness, however it can be cured.
Treatment for agoraphobic symptoms is different from other types of anxiety. It is not as simple as taking a pill and getting on with your life. It can take years of therapy to reduce agoraphobic symptoms to the point of stepping outside the door. The therapist must go the home of the person who is suffering from the agoraphobic symptoms and form a bond of trust with them. Only then can he or she start to make progress. For the person with agoraphobic symptoms, the world is against them and they have to do everything they can to protect themselves. This often leads to becoming a recluse. Only with the proper treatment can the person with agoraphobic symptoms start to lead a healthy normal life.
Jeanette Pollock is a freelance author and website owner of anxietydomain.com. Visit Jeanette's site to learn more on how to stop anxiety disorders.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeanette_Pollock
http://EzineArticles.com/?About-Agoraphobia-Symptoms&id=575760
By Jeanette Pollock
Agoraphobia is perhaps the worst phobia that a person can have. It is the fear of being not only in a social setting, but also with people, themselves. Agoraphobic symptoms do not always have to be severe. They can be mild symptoms causing you to avoid certain people or places. The severe symptoms can be debilitating.
An agoraphobic with severe symptoms cannot function in a setting other then their home or safe setting. They often spend years without going outside. When they try, they suffer the most horrendous feelings of anxiety. Their lungs feel like they are collapsing, tightness overcomes their chests forcing them back into their home or whatever familiar surrounding makes them feel safe. Most often, an extremely traumatic event will trigger agoraphobic symptoms, often, if it is not treated, then the person will remain a recluse for years.
An overwhelming fear that the event will happen again will lead to agoraphobic symptoms and the person who is suffering will not leave their secure setting. Agoraphobic symptoms include the fear of socializing, rapid heartbeat when trying to leave their home or safe setting, tightness in their chest, and finally an overwhelming fear of death if they attempt to leave their safe setting. This usually drives the agoraphobic back into their home where they know they are safe. It is a devastating illness, however it can be cured.
Treatment for agoraphobic symptoms is different from other types of anxiety. It is not as simple as taking a pill and getting on with your life. It can take years of therapy to reduce agoraphobic symptoms to the point of stepping outside the door. The therapist must go the home of the person who is suffering from the agoraphobic symptoms and form a bond of trust with them. Only then can he or she start to make progress. For the person with agoraphobic symptoms, the world is against them and they have to do everything they can to protect themselves. This often leads to becoming a recluse. Only with the proper treatment can the person with agoraphobic symptoms start to lead a healthy normal life.
Jeanette Pollock is a freelance author and website owner of anxietydomain.com. Visit Jeanette's site to learn more on how to stop anxiety disorders.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeanette_Pollock
http://EzineArticles.com/?About-Agoraphobia-Symptoms&id=575760
How to Overcome Agoraphobia - An Agoraphobia Treatment That Works
How to Overcome Agoraphobia - An Agoraphobia Treatment That Works
By Michael Porteous
Agoraphobia is one of the more restricting and depressing conditions related to panic attacks. While some people know it as a fear of open spaces it is actually a fear of a loss of control where the sufferer will panic once they leave a place of control and security which is usually their own home which leads to the misconception about open spaces. So 'how to overcome agoraphobia' actually means 'how to remain calm when not in total control of a situation' and while most agoraphobia treatments know this they tend to approach it in the wrong way.
While it is natural to feel uneasy when situations are out of your control agoraphobics take this to an unhealthy level having panic attacks whenever they cannot handle the situation, coupled with this is a heightened sense of out of what is controllable and uncontrollable. While most people have no problems being outside or in crowded places because they have a good sense of risk and can handle randomness without being too flustered an agoraphobic cannot maintain this calmness and will break down. This can lead to serious problems with most treatments as most will involve unfamiliarity and uncertainty or no guarantee of success which is again an unknown element.
If we look at the most conventional agoraphobia treatments we can see a list of downsides.
Behavior Therapy
This is where the patient gets exposed to situations that would make them panic gradually to harden them against those things. This is problematic as it is very scary for the agoraphobic and if someone else is setting these situations up there is a lack of trust and control over the entire treatment. It may work but it is long and painful and many sufferers quit before they learn to cope.
Cognitive Therapy
This is the classic 'lie on a couch and talk about your problems' approach which poses many problems for agoraphobics. It is often very hard for them to make appointments to meet therapists, it is long and costly and the presence of the therapist is an uncontrollable factor for a long time until a large amount of trust is gained. The reliance on the therapist can also just transfer the sense of control to the therapist's room not curing the root causes.
Relaxation Techniques
While not harmful and sometimes helpful no amount of breathing techniques can cure the root cause of agoraphobia, it is often used in conjunction with other treatments and helps against the symptoms but is not a cure in its own right.
Hypnotherapy
This method allows the therapist to "reprogram" the sufferers thought patterns to a degree and has been shown to work with some phobias however agoraphobics fear of handing over control of themselves are usually horrified of the thought of someone else tinkering with their brains!
By now you can probably see a pattern emerging. All of these require heavy outside influence and often harsh methods that will scare off many sufferers. What is needed is an Agoraphobia treatment that gives the power and control to the individual with the condition. Only when the agoraphobic can feel in control as they progress further along their treatment can they keep motivated and learn to ease themselves into a more healthy state of mind.
While the goal is to remove the need for total control one needs a great measure of control of their destiny to start along the path so they can eventually learn they can handle the unexpected and unusual. How to overcome agoraphobia is not about other people beating a new reality into the agoraphobic's brain but about the agoraphobic taking control of his own life and knowing that control of his own self will make him stand strong against those things that are out of his control!
Do you want to take control of your life and break free of Agoraphobia? Do you want to live life free of the restrictions you impose on yourself and enjoy every breath in any place at any time? If so click hear to find out how you can cure your agoraphobia!
http://Anxiety.1001-Solutions.info
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Porteous
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Overcome-Agoraphobia---An-Agoraphobia-Treatment-That-Works&id=845759
By Michael Porteous
Agoraphobia is one of the more restricting and depressing conditions related to panic attacks. While some people know it as a fear of open spaces it is actually a fear of a loss of control where the sufferer will panic once they leave a place of control and security which is usually their own home which leads to the misconception about open spaces. So 'how to overcome agoraphobia' actually means 'how to remain calm when not in total control of a situation' and while most agoraphobia treatments know this they tend to approach it in the wrong way.
While it is natural to feel uneasy when situations are out of your control agoraphobics take this to an unhealthy level having panic attacks whenever they cannot handle the situation, coupled with this is a heightened sense of out of what is controllable and uncontrollable. While most people have no problems being outside or in crowded places because they have a good sense of risk and can handle randomness without being too flustered an agoraphobic cannot maintain this calmness and will break down. This can lead to serious problems with most treatments as most will involve unfamiliarity and uncertainty or no guarantee of success which is again an unknown element.
If we look at the most conventional agoraphobia treatments we can see a list of downsides.
Behavior Therapy
This is where the patient gets exposed to situations that would make them panic gradually to harden them against those things. This is problematic as it is very scary for the agoraphobic and if someone else is setting these situations up there is a lack of trust and control over the entire treatment. It may work but it is long and painful and many sufferers quit before they learn to cope.
Cognitive Therapy
This is the classic 'lie on a couch and talk about your problems' approach which poses many problems for agoraphobics. It is often very hard for them to make appointments to meet therapists, it is long and costly and the presence of the therapist is an uncontrollable factor for a long time until a large amount of trust is gained. The reliance on the therapist can also just transfer the sense of control to the therapist's room not curing the root causes.
Relaxation Techniques
While not harmful and sometimes helpful no amount of breathing techniques can cure the root cause of agoraphobia, it is often used in conjunction with other treatments and helps against the symptoms but is not a cure in its own right.
Hypnotherapy
This method allows the therapist to "reprogram" the sufferers thought patterns to a degree and has been shown to work with some phobias however agoraphobics fear of handing over control of themselves are usually horrified of the thought of someone else tinkering with their brains!
By now you can probably see a pattern emerging. All of these require heavy outside influence and often harsh methods that will scare off many sufferers. What is needed is an Agoraphobia treatment that gives the power and control to the individual with the condition. Only when the agoraphobic can feel in control as they progress further along their treatment can they keep motivated and learn to ease themselves into a more healthy state of mind.
While the goal is to remove the need for total control one needs a great measure of control of their destiny to start along the path so they can eventually learn they can handle the unexpected and unusual. How to overcome agoraphobia is not about other people beating a new reality into the agoraphobic's brain but about the agoraphobic taking control of his own life and knowing that control of his own self will make him stand strong against those things that are out of his control!
Do you want to take control of your life and break free of Agoraphobia? Do you want to live life free of the restrictions you impose on yourself and enjoy every breath in any place at any time? If so click hear to find out how you can cure your agoraphobia!
http://Anxiety.1001-Solutions.info
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Porteous
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Overcome-Agoraphobia---An-Agoraphobia-Treatment-That-Works&id=845759
Agoraphobia Treatment : Finding a Real Solution That Works
Agoraphobia Treatment : Finding a Real Solution That Works
By Stephen Brown
In considering a possible agoraphobia treatment it is important to define the real source of agoraphobia, which is a fear of public places. This fear can manifest itself as quite severe in many cases. Some individuals who suffer from agoraphobia also suffer from panic disorder and the agoraphobia has stemmed from the fear that a panic attack might occur. The anxiety associated with the panic disorder can develop as an avoidance of being alone outside the home or of being in a crowded area. Some individuals may begin to avoid situations in which they might feel great amounts of stress, fearing it could lead to a panic attack. Many times the person affected may feel as though they need the company of another person when in the situation that affects them.
Many people who suffer from agoraphobia feel as though they need to define and then restrict themselves to a sort of safety zone. The boundaries of this zone can vary; however, in many cases they are quite restrictive. These restrictions; however, do not completely eliminate the onset of panic attacks. In fact, the individual may continue to suffer from panic attacks on a frequent basis even with the restrictions in place. Therefore it becomes obvious that real solutions for an agoraphobia treatment that will work must be found.
The ideal goal of an effective agoraphobia treatment solution should be to allow the person effected to function. There are a variety of treatment options that have been utilized in an effort to reach this goal. Therapy can be particularly beneficial; however, it is important to recognize there are number of different types of therapeutic approaches that can be utilized. In many cases therapeutic approaches to agoraphobia treatment may involve both the therapist and the patient approaching the subject of the person’s fear. For example, if the person has a fear of going into a shopping mall because they fear the onset of a panic attack, the therapist may accompany the patient on a trip to the shopping mall. Through a gradual approach to the situation, the person may be able to learn to cope with their fears on a graduated level. Each attempt is aimed at getting the patient to master their fears for longer periods of time. Over time it is hoped that the person will be able to conquer the fear entirely. This type of therapeutic approach can require a significant dedication of time and energy in order to be successful.
Of course, there are other possible approaches to agoraphobia treatment options; however, it should be noted that some approaches, such as prescription medicines may only mask the symptoms associated with the disorder and not treat the real root cause of the problem. Treatment with medications can also cause unpleasant side effects, including dry mouth, blurred vision and constipation. In addition, in order for the symptoms of the disorder to be controlled, the patient must continue using the medications. Cessation of the medications can cause recurrence of the symptoms.
Given the various agoraphobia treatment options available it is imperative that a person suffering from this disorder find a solution that will allow them to gain control of their life back with as few side effects as possible.
Looking for more information on agoraphobia, anxiety, and panic attacks? Visit the following links for more great articles...
http://www.selfsteps.com/anxiety-articles.htm
http://www.selfsteps.com/panic-attack-articles.htm
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Brown
http://EzineArticles.com/?Agoraphobia-Treatment-:-Finding-a-Real-Solution-That-Works&id=360475
By Stephen Brown
In considering a possible agoraphobia treatment it is important to define the real source of agoraphobia, which is a fear of public places. This fear can manifest itself as quite severe in many cases. Some individuals who suffer from agoraphobia also suffer from panic disorder and the agoraphobia has stemmed from the fear that a panic attack might occur. The anxiety associated with the panic disorder can develop as an avoidance of being alone outside the home or of being in a crowded area. Some individuals may begin to avoid situations in which they might feel great amounts of stress, fearing it could lead to a panic attack. Many times the person affected may feel as though they need the company of another person when in the situation that affects them.
Many people who suffer from agoraphobia feel as though they need to define and then restrict themselves to a sort of safety zone. The boundaries of this zone can vary; however, in many cases they are quite restrictive. These restrictions; however, do not completely eliminate the onset of panic attacks. In fact, the individual may continue to suffer from panic attacks on a frequent basis even with the restrictions in place. Therefore it becomes obvious that real solutions for an agoraphobia treatment that will work must be found.
The ideal goal of an effective agoraphobia treatment solution should be to allow the person effected to function. There are a variety of treatment options that have been utilized in an effort to reach this goal. Therapy can be particularly beneficial; however, it is important to recognize there are number of different types of therapeutic approaches that can be utilized. In many cases therapeutic approaches to agoraphobia treatment may involve both the therapist and the patient approaching the subject of the person’s fear. For example, if the person has a fear of going into a shopping mall because they fear the onset of a panic attack, the therapist may accompany the patient on a trip to the shopping mall. Through a gradual approach to the situation, the person may be able to learn to cope with their fears on a graduated level. Each attempt is aimed at getting the patient to master their fears for longer periods of time. Over time it is hoped that the person will be able to conquer the fear entirely. This type of therapeutic approach can require a significant dedication of time and energy in order to be successful.
Of course, there are other possible approaches to agoraphobia treatment options; however, it should be noted that some approaches, such as prescription medicines may only mask the symptoms associated with the disorder and not treat the real root cause of the problem. Treatment with medications can also cause unpleasant side effects, including dry mouth, blurred vision and constipation. In addition, in order for the symptoms of the disorder to be controlled, the patient must continue using the medications. Cessation of the medications can cause recurrence of the symptoms.
Given the various agoraphobia treatment options available it is imperative that a person suffering from this disorder find a solution that will allow them to gain control of their life back with as few side effects as possible.
Looking for more information on agoraphobia, anxiety, and panic attacks? Visit the following links for more great articles...
http://www.selfsteps.com/anxiety-articles.htm
http://www.selfsteps.com/panic-attack-articles.htm
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Brown
http://EzineArticles.com/?Agoraphobia-Treatment-:-Finding-a-Real-Solution-That-Works&id=360475
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Help For Agoraphobia
Help For Agoraphobia
By Giri Anantha
There is no question that you need to get help for agoraphobia. Agoraphobia can drag on for years. It can be depressing to watch life pass you by.
Despite how badly you may feel right now, it is very possible to overcome this condition, so remain positive. You must make the move to get proper help though.
Help Is Effective
Whatever you think right now, there is lots of help these days which will make you feel so much better. It will get rid of the dark cloud that's constantly hovering over you.
You may be required to take medicine to help calm some of what you're feeling. Cognitive behavioral therapy along with medication is effective. Your doctor will provide tasks to accomplish.
You will be actively involved and participating in your recovery. You'll need to report everything to your doctor. As you progress and start feeling better, your tasks may increase.
This is fine, because by this stage, things are looking up for you already. By practicing, you get better and more confident. The dark cloud above you is all but gone! Imagine how happy you'll be feeling!
Encountering Problems
Occasionally, you might have a bad day. This does happen, so don't worry, although it can be upsetting. That's alright. Just remember to carry on with the good work you've done up to this point.
Getting well does take time and effort, so you need to be patient and focused. Put any 'bad days' behind you and get right back into the thick of things!
Alternative Methods
You can get help for agoraphobia by using other methods too. Some successful drug-free methods include PureCalm, a herbal remedy that's been effective for many, The Linden Method and Panic Away programs.
There are many other options as well. You can try a holistic approach or hypnosis, for example. However, whatever you choose, try to have some form of therapy as well for the best benefit.
It's easy to look for excuses and put things off. Having a therapist means you have to 'report' to someone. Be honest. It's for your benefit. With a strict and planned program, you will make tremendous strides. http://www.panic-and-agoraphobia.com http://www.panic-and-agoraphobia.com/help-for-agoraphobia.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Giri_Anantha http://EzineArticles.com/?Help-For-Agoraphobia&id=829430
By Giri Anantha
There is no question that you need to get help for agoraphobia. Agoraphobia can drag on for years. It can be depressing to watch life pass you by.
Despite how badly you may feel right now, it is very possible to overcome this condition, so remain positive. You must make the move to get proper help though.
Help Is Effective
Whatever you think right now, there is lots of help these days which will make you feel so much better. It will get rid of the dark cloud that's constantly hovering over you.
You may be required to take medicine to help calm some of what you're feeling. Cognitive behavioral therapy along with medication is effective. Your doctor will provide tasks to accomplish.
You will be actively involved and participating in your recovery. You'll need to report everything to your doctor. As you progress and start feeling better, your tasks may increase.
This is fine, because by this stage, things are looking up for you already. By practicing, you get better and more confident. The dark cloud above you is all but gone! Imagine how happy you'll be feeling!
Encountering Problems
Occasionally, you might have a bad day. This does happen, so don't worry, although it can be upsetting. That's alright. Just remember to carry on with the good work you've done up to this point.
Getting well does take time and effort, so you need to be patient and focused. Put any 'bad days' behind you and get right back into the thick of things!
Alternative Methods
You can get help for agoraphobia by using other methods too. Some successful drug-free methods include PureCalm, a herbal remedy that's been effective for many, The Linden Method and Panic Away programs.
There are many other options as well. You can try a holistic approach or hypnosis, for example. However, whatever you choose, try to have some form of therapy as well for the best benefit.
It's easy to look for excuses and put things off. Having a therapist means you have to 'report' to someone. Be honest. It's for your benefit. With a strict and planned program, you will make tremendous strides. http://www.panic-and-agoraphobia.com http://www.panic-and-agoraphobia.com/help-for-agoraphobia.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Giri_Anantha http://EzineArticles.com/?Help-For-Agoraphobia&id=829430
Agoraphobia Support
Agoraphobia Support - 3 Mistakes to Avoid
By Alex Taylor
Agoraphobia support groups will often tell you what you should be doing to successfully overcome your condition, but they may neglect to tell you what to avoid doing. So what follows are the 3 most common mistakes you should absolutely avoid in your effort to beat agoraphobia:
1) You Don't Keep A Journal:
Keeping a journal is important with all forms of panic disorder, but it is of vital importance when it comes to agoraphobia.
Being able to look back over weeks and months of entries will allow you to quickly see the progress you're making, which can single-handedly cause your condition to become far less severe.
Start keeping a journal today!
2) You Try To Do Too Much Too Soon:
Rome wasn't built in a day. And agoraphobia is never beaten overnight. People who overcome this condition do it slowly and steadily, in small baby step increments.
A tiny improvement that's almost too small to measure should be celebrated. Making tiny improvements even once a week will build into a wonderful story of recovery over the period of a year.
It creates exponential growth - this week, you improve half a percent, then next week you improve another half a percent. Except now you're improving on your improvements and your results are snowballing.
So celebrate those tiny baby steps you're taking. Baby steps can take you a long way.
3) You Don't Let Yourself Enjoy Things:
It's very common in agoraphobics that even when they feel safe and secure at home they are not happy, simply because they feel they're losing the battle against their condition.
But there's absolutely nothing wrong in being happy, contented, and enjoying things in the area where you feel safe.
You'll be making progress in other areas of your life, so let those take care of themselves.
But when you're at home, or wherever you feel safest, allow yourself to relax, do things that make you happy, and never feel guilty that you're not doing something about agoraphobia right at that moment.
Allowing yourself to relax and be happy will do wonders for your frame of mind, your emotions, and your life in general.
So relax at every opportunity you get, and have fun!
If you can successfully avoid these 3 common mistakes, and you can combine them with the more standard advice given by agoraphobia support groups, you'll soon discover that your problems are much easier to overcome than you ever thought before.
Since overcoming a lifelong battle with anxiety and panic disorder in 2007, Alex Taylor now devotes his time to helping others recover. He achieves this via his highly-acclaimed online course, "Beat Panic Today." You can experience the same results that many others have experienced by accessing the course right now, free of charge, by going to Alex's website: http://www.PreventYourPanic.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Taylor http://EzineArticles.com/?Agoraphobia-Support---3-Mistakes-to-Avoid&id=1391300
By Alex Taylor
Agoraphobia support groups will often tell you what you should be doing to successfully overcome your condition, but they may neglect to tell you what to avoid doing. So what follows are the 3 most common mistakes you should absolutely avoid in your effort to beat agoraphobia:
1) You Don't Keep A Journal:
Keeping a journal is important with all forms of panic disorder, but it is of vital importance when it comes to agoraphobia.
Being able to look back over weeks and months of entries will allow you to quickly see the progress you're making, which can single-handedly cause your condition to become far less severe.
Start keeping a journal today!
2) You Try To Do Too Much Too Soon:
Rome wasn't built in a day. And agoraphobia is never beaten overnight. People who overcome this condition do it slowly and steadily, in small baby step increments.
A tiny improvement that's almost too small to measure should be celebrated. Making tiny improvements even once a week will build into a wonderful story of recovery over the period of a year.
It creates exponential growth - this week, you improve half a percent, then next week you improve another half a percent. Except now you're improving on your improvements and your results are snowballing.
So celebrate those tiny baby steps you're taking. Baby steps can take you a long way.
3) You Don't Let Yourself Enjoy Things:
It's very common in agoraphobics that even when they feel safe and secure at home they are not happy, simply because they feel they're losing the battle against their condition.
But there's absolutely nothing wrong in being happy, contented, and enjoying things in the area where you feel safe.
You'll be making progress in other areas of your life, so let those take care of themselves.
But when you're at home, or wherever you feel safest, allow yourself to relax, do things that make you happy, and never feel guilty that you're not doing something about agoraphobia right at that moment.
Allowing yourself to relax and be happy will do wonders for your frame of mind, your emotions, and your life in general.
So relax at every opportunity you get, and have fun!
If you can successfully avoid these 3 common mistakes, and you can combine them with the more standard advice given by agoraphobia support groups, you'll soon discover that your problems are much easier to overcome than you ever thought before.
Since overcoming a lifelong battle with anxiety and panic disorder in 2007, Alex Taylor now devotes his time to helping others recover. He achieves this via his highly-acclaimed online course, "Beat Panic Today." You can experience the same results that many others have experienced by accessing the course right now, free of charge, by going to Alex's website: http://www.PreventYourPanic.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Taylor http://EzineArticles.com/?Agoraphobia-Support---3-Mistakes-to-Avoid&id=1391300
What Is Agoraphobia?
What Is Agoraphobia?
By Arthur Buchanan
Agoraphobia, when literally translated, means fear of a marketplace. Agoraphobia, when it becomes more severe, will become fear of a public area or place. Beyond this definition are several different emotions and reactions to places that are attached. It is known that one-third of people who have panic disorder will begin to develop agoraphobia. Understanding the how and why of how agoraphobia manifests itself offers a beginning for you to begin to be able to cope agoraphobia as a mental illness.
Agoraphobia will usually begin when you are having a panic attack. Sometimes, this can be as soon as the very first panic attack that is carried through with.
This panic attack, to you, may seem to have no basis to it and only begin out of nowhere. As a result, the panic attack scenario becomes associated with a place that you are in. This association then leads to avoidance of the place as well as trying to avoid other places that have the same types of people or things as part of the surroundings.There are several reasons for the panic attack occurring. Often times, it is a result of a stressful situation that is occurring in the environment around you or in your life. Other times, it may be a result of anxiety that is occurring in your life. If this is not taken care of, or if you are having a hard time coping, your brain will react by causing a panic attack. If there is increased fear and discomfort in your life as well, then a panic attack may occur.
There are several physical side affects that are related to a panic attack. The first thing that you may notice is that your heart rate will begin to get faster. As a result, there will be pain that occurs in your chest. You may find yourself beginning to sweat from this. Your breath will become short, which will cause you to become dizzy. You may also begin to shake from the panic attack. After these different things occur, then you may notice that several fears will begin to take place.
Panic attacks will then turn into panic disorders, where one is afraid to put themselves in a situation. While this fear may rise, those with agoraphobia don’t necessarily take themselves out of situations that cause panic attacks at first. Many times, the fear of going into the area will lead them to bring a friend with them in order to feel safe. Other instances become more extreme where the person who is having the panic attacks and fear will stay at home. If this fear is not treated, it becomes worsened by more panic attacks and more fear of being in a public area. These fears cause the person with the mental disorder to establish what is known as zones of safety. The person will become afraid of moving out of these areas.
One of the major results of agoraphobia is simply avoiding situations. This may mean that you ask others to go to public places for you or with you. At other times, this avoidance is only by mentally being in a place, but trying not to think of where you are. This avoidance at a more extreme level means that you won’t leave your home in order to go places.
If you are finding that you have a fear of going into public places and are relying on others to take you out of what you may know as safety zones, then it is important to begin getting help right away. To begin, there is a medication that can be offered to you in order to calm down the panic attacks as well as make you less afraid of where you are. The second step is to receive cognitive-behavioral therapy. This will allow you to be able to learn about what your fears are, when they started and how to move past the avoidance of situations.
One of the parts of the therapy that you will probably take part in is known as desensitization. This is also referred to as gradual exposure therapy. Over a certain amount of time, you will be requested to go into the areas that cause you the most fear. While in these situations, you will learn how to face the fears and anxiety that result. Over time, the fear will become less threatening and you will be able to move into places more easily.
If you are afraid of moving into public areas and situations, or avoid certain places because of panic attacks, then you may be developing agoraphobia. By doing this, you may be in danger of becoming homebound and never leaving a safety zone. If you know someone who has this disorder, or if you believe that you have it yourself, then it is important to get help as soon as possible. There are several methods and treatments that can move you past your fears and allow you to face public areas again.
Listen to Arthur Buchanan on the Mike Litman Show! http://freesuccessaudios.com/Artlive.mp3 THIS LINK WORKS, LISTEN TODAY!
With Much Love,
Arthur Buchanan
President/CEO
Out of Darkness & Into the Light
209 ELLIS Ave. Suite 1313
Huron Ohio, 44839 http://www.out-of-darkness.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arthur_Buchanan http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Is-Agoraphobia?&id=509659
By Arthur Buchanan
Agoraphobia, when literally translated, means fear of a marketplace. Agoraphobia, when it becomes more severe, will become fear of a public area or place. Beyond this definition are several different emotions and reactions to places that are attached. It is known that one-third of people who have panic disorder will begin to develop agoraphobia. Understanding the how and why of how agoraphobia manifests itself offers a beginning for you to begin to be able to cope agoraphobia as a mental illness.
Agoraphobia will usually begin when you are having a panic attack. Sometimes, this can be as soon as the very first panic attack that is carried through with.
This panic attack, to you, may seem to have no basis to it and only begin out of nowhere. As a result, the panic attack scenario becomes associated with a place that you are in. This association then leads to avoidance of the place as well as trying to avoid other places that have the same types of people or things as part of the surroundings.There are several reasons for the panic attack occurring. Often times, it is a result of a stressful situation that is occurring in the environment around you or in your life. Other times, it may be a result of anxiety that is occurring in your life. If this is not taken care of, or if you are having a hard time coping, your brain will react by causing a panic attack. If there is increased fear and discomfort in your life as well, then a panic attack may occur.
There are several physical side affects that are related to a panic attack. The first thing that you may notice is that your heart rate will begin to get faster. As a result, there will be pain that occurs in your chest. You may find yourself beginning to sweat from this. Your breath will become short, which will cause you to become dizzy. You may also begin to shake from the panic attack. After these different things occur, then you may notice that several fears will begin to take place.
Panic attacks will then turn into panic disorders, where one is afraid to put themselves in a situation. While this fear may rise, those with agoraphobia don’t necessarily take themselves out of situations that cause panic attacks at first. Many times, the fear of going into the area will lead them to bring a friend with them in order to feel safe. Other instances become more extreme where the person who is having the panic attacks and fear will stay at home. If this fear is not treated, it becomes worsened by more panic attacks and more fear of being in a public area. These fears cause the person with the mental disorder to establish what is known as zones of safety. The person will become afraid of moving out of these areas.
One of the major results of agoraphobia is simply avoiding situations. This may mean that you ask others to go to public places for you or with you. At other times, this avoidance is only by mentally being in a place, but trying not to think of where you are. This avoidance at a more extreme level means that you won’t leave your home in order to go places.
If you are finding that you have a fear of going into public places and are relying on others to take you out of what you may know as safety zones, then it is important to begin getting help right away. To begin, there is a medication that can be offered to you in order to calm down the panic attacks as well as make you less afraid of where you are. The second step is to receive cognitive-behavioral therapy. This will allow you to be able to learn about what your fears are, when they started and how to move past the avoidance of situations.
One of the parts of the therapy that you will probably take part in is known as desensitization. This is also referred to as gradual exposure therapy. Over a certain amount of time, you will be requested to go into the areas that cause you the most fear. While in these situations, you will learn how to face the fears and anxiety that result. Over time, the fear will become less threatening and you will be able to move into places more easily.
If you are afraid of moving into public areas and situations, or avoid certain places because of panic attacks, then you may be developing agoraphobia. By doing this, you may be in danger of becoming homebound and never leaving a safety zone. If you know someone who has this disorder, or if you believe that you have it yourself, then it is important to get help as soon as possible. There are several methods and treatments that can move you past your fears and allow you to face public areas again.
Listen to Arthur Buchanan on the Mike Litman Show! http://freesuccessaudios.com/Artlive.mp3 THIS LINK WORKS, LISTEN TODAY!
With Much Love,
Arthur Buchanan
President/CEO
Out of Darkness & Into the Light
209 ELLIS Ave. Suite 1313
Huron Ohio, 44839 http://www.out-of-darkness.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arthur_Buchanan http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Is-Agoraphobia?&id=509659
Agoraphobia and Panic Attack Disorder Are Ruining Your Life
Agoraphobia and Panic Attack Disorder Are Ruining Your Life
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Denise_Durbin]Denise Durbin
Many people do not realize that agoraphobia is a form of anxiety disorder that is quite common but highly treatable. Agoraphobia and panic attack disorder are closely in that an individually suffering from agoraphobia fears situations or settings where they feel out of control or fear the onset of a panic attack in public.
When a person suffers from panic attacks they run the risk of having these attacks in a public place. After the very first panic attack, the person might become fearful of having another attack in a place that they cannot control. Spending time in places where they might have a panic attack becomes impossible for these people and agoraphobia becomes the problem.
This is why it is so important that panic attacks be treated immediately so that they do not progress to a state that completely hinders the quality of life. If you have had the symptoms of a panic attack the first thing that you must do is visit the doctor and be properly diagnosed. If it does turn out to be a panic disorder, then you can take the first steps for treatment.
The doctor may prescribe medication that will help to ease the symptoms of a panic attack when it is taking place. There are also antidepressant medications that will help patients keep their panic attacks under control.
There are also behavior therapies that work very well in the treatment of panic attacks and disorders. The most important part of treatment is that the panic disorder does not reach the level of agoraphobia. Sometimes the fear of having an attack is enough to trigger one. It is necessary to learn to control this type of thinking and put it in check before it causes a panic attack to happen.
Unfortunately, people can literally talk themselves right into having a panic attack just by the simple act of talking and thinking about panic attacks. These thought patterns must be changed. Cognitive behavior therapy is one treatment that seeks to do that.
There are also natural treatments that work very well for some people with panic disorders. Hypnosis and breathing techniques along with meditation are some of the more common natural approaches to panic disorder.
If feelings of anxiety have started to affect your ability to go to work or do any of the normal functions of life, you might need a more aggressive therapy for your condition. You should monitor your progress while you are seeking treatment for panic disorders and report any changes in your condition to your doctor or therapist.
If you are having panic attacks and have been diagnosed with anxiety or panic disorder, you should educate yourself on the connection between agoraphobia and panic attack disorder. It is important that you get a handle on the panic attacks before they impair the quality of your life.
Don't let panic attacks ruin your life, you can control anxiety and avoid [http://www.anxietyandpanicattack.net]long term medications for anxiety and panic attack. Visit http://www.AnxietyandPanicAttack.net today and find out how.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Denise_Durbin http://EzineArticles.com/?Agoraphobia-and-Panic-Attack-Disorder-Are-Ruining-Your-Life&id=1546040
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Denise_Durbin]Denise Durbin
Many people do not realize that agoraphobia is a form of anxiety disorder that is quite common but highly treatable. Agoraphobia and panic attack disorder are closely in that an individually suffering from agoraphobia fears situations or settings where they feel out of control or fear the onset of a panic attack in public.
When a person suffers from panic attacks they run the risk of having these attacks in a public place. After the very first panic attack, the person might become fearful of having another attack in a place that they cannot control. Spending time in places where they might have a panic attack becomes impossible for these people and agoraphobia becomes the problem.
This is why it is so important that panic attacks be treated immediately so that they do not progress to a state that completely hinders the quality of life. If you have had the symptoms of a panic attack the first thing that you must do is visit the doctor and be properly diagnosed. If it does turn out to be a panic disorder, then you can take the first steps for treatment.
The doctor may prescribe medication that will help to ease the symptoms of a panic attack when it is taking place. There are also antidepressant medications that will help patients keep their panic attacks under control.
There are also behavior therapies that work very well in the treatment of panic attacks and disorders. The most important part of treatment is that the panic disorder does not reach the level of agoraphobia. Sometimes the fear of having an attack is enough to trigger one. It is necessary to learn to control this type of thinking and put it in check before it causes a panic attack to happen.
Unfortunately, people can literally talk themselves right into having a panic attack just by the simple act of talking and thinking about panic attacks. These thought patterns must be changed. Cognitive behavior therapy is one treatment that seeks to do that.
There are also natural treatments that work very well for some people with panic disorders. Hypnosis and breathing techniques along with meditation are some of the more common natural approaches to panic disorder.
If feelings of anxiety have started to affect your ability to go to work or do any of the normal functions of life, you might need a more aggressive therapy for your condition. You should monitor your progress while you are seeking treatment for panic disorders and report any changes in your condition to your doctor or therapist.
If you are having panic attacks and have been diagnosed with anxiety or panic disorder, you should educate yourself on the connection between agoraphobia and panic attack disorder. It is important that you get a handle on the panic attacks before they impair the quality of your life.
Don't let panic attacks ruin your life, you can control anxiety and avoid [http://www.anxietyandpanicattack.net]long term medications for anxiety and panic attack. Visit http://www.AnxietyandPanicAttack.net today and find out how.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Denise_Durbin http://EzineArticles.com/?Agoraphobia-and-Panic-Attack-Disorder-Are-Ruining-Your-Life&id=1546040
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Fear of Open Spaces and Agoraphobia Disorder - A Psychotherapist Explains
The following is an article written by Peter James Field. It looks at Agoraphobia from the point of view of a practising Psychotherapist. He concludes that the condition can be helped through the medium of transformational hypnotherapy. Please read it to get some insight into the nature of the condition.
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder seen often in our hypnotherapy practice here in the UK. In fact, about 5% of the adult population will suffer from an agoraphobia disorder at some time in their lives. In the UK, it is the one phobia that is regularly treated as a medical issue.
As anyone who has ever experienced agoraphobia anxiety or a similar anxiety disorder is only too well aware, it is a condition that has the ability to produce intense and often incapacitating feelings of fear and panic.
Until fairly recently, agoraphobia was defined simply as the fear of open spaces, but the term has now been expanded to include a number of other fears, including the fear of public places and crowds, the fear of travelling alone, or simply the fear of leaving the home or other 'safe' area.
When the individual is in the grips of agoraphobia and panic, the feeling can be one of absolute terror. Because these attacks can be unpredictable, occurring anywhere and at any time, the person experiencing them is very often terrified of them happening in a public place, where they feel the most vulnerable.
This can really compound and intensify feelings of anxiety and panic, producing a very real fear of public places, fear of crowds, fear of travelling alone and fear of leaving home.Indeed, such intense fear can virtually force the person needing agoraphobia help to avoid leaving the home and putting him or herself into a situation that they feel might leave them vulnerable.
Agoraphobia disorder does appear to be more common in women than in men, although this may simply be because women tend to seek outside help with the condition more than do men. This is a disorder that can often manifest in a person's twenties and can persist for years, if left untreated. The good news is that skilfully applied transformational hypnotherapy can indeed be used as an effective agoraphobia treatment leading to an agoraphobia cure.
We know that agoraphobia and panic are intense feelings generated at the level of the subconscious mind - the home and repository of all feelings. The scary feelings are experienced because of an over-reaction by the subconscious mind which produces feelings inappropriate to the situation and circumstance. It imagines danger and so produces fear where no real reason for that fear exists.The truth is, of course, that the subconscious mind cannot tell the difference between that which is imagined and that which is real.
You only have to think about sucking on a lemon to prove this to yourself. An imaginary lemon can produce exactly the same effect as a real lemon - tightening of jaw muscles, increased salivation - because for the subconscious mind there really is no difference between the imagined and the real.With agoraphobia and panic, the subconscious mind has got things wrong. It imagines that a harmless and essentially non-threatening situation is inherently threatening and dangerous and so it responds as though the individual were in real danger by flooding the body with adrenalin - in much the same way that an imagined lemon floods the mouth with saliva - and this in turn produces feelings of anxiety and panic.
Through the medium of transformational hypnotherapy, we can adjust false beliefs and perceptions held by the subconscious mind and correctly align them with reality. Once we have understood the origin of the subconscious mind's faulty perception, we are in a position to correct and neutralise it, thereby freeing the person to move on with their life, free of this really restricting, confining condition.There really is no need to continue to experience agoraphobia and panic. If agoraphobia disorder is a part of your life, real help is available:
Transformational hypnotherapy can indeed provide effective agoraphobia treatment leading to an effective agoraphobia cure.A leading British hypno-psychotherapist, with practices in London and Birmingham, UK, Peter Field is the author of many articles on psychotherapy and hypnosis. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Health and Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.More of his interesting articles and other useful information can be found on his website: http://www.peterfieldhypnotherapy.co.uk/Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_James_Field
From my own experience of family members actually having the condition, effecting a cure is certainly not such a simple process as the above article would have you believe. In fact the very nature of the condition prevents people from making themselves available to this type of treatment. I welcome comments from anyone who has tried transformational hypnotherapy and can share their experience.
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder seen often in our hypnotherapy practice here in the UK. In fact, about 5% of the adult population will suffer from an agoraphobia disorder at some time in their lives. In the UK, it is the one phobia that is regularly treated as a medical issue.
As anyone who has ever experienced agoraphobia anxiety or a similar anxiety disorder is only too well aware, it is a condition that has the ability to produce intense and often incapacitating feelings of fear and panic.
Until fairly recently, agoraphobia was defined simply as the fear of open spaces, but the term has now been expanded to include a number of other fears, including the fear of public places and crowds, the fear of travelling alone, or simply the fear of leaving the home or other 'safe' area.
When the individual is in the grips of agoraphobia and panic, the feeling can be one of absolute terror. Because these attacks can be unpredictable, occurring anywhere and at any time, the person experiencing them is very often terrified of them happening in a public place, where they feel the most vulnerable.
This can really compound and intensify feelings of anxiety and panic, producing a very real fear of public places, fear of crowds, fear of travelling alone and fear of leaving home.Indeed, such intense fear can virtually force the person needing agoraphobia help to avoid leaving the home and putting him or herself into a situation that they feel might leave them vulnerable.
Agoraphobia disorder does appear to be more common in women than in men, although this may simply be because women tend to seek outside help with the condition more than do men. This is a disorder that can often manifest in a person's twenties and can persist for years, if left untreated. The good news is that skilfully applied transformational hypnotherapy can indeed be used as an effective agoraphobia treatment leading to an agoraphobia cure.
We know that agoraphobia and panic are intense feelings generated at the level of the subconscious mind - the home and repository of all feelings. The scary feelings are experienced because of an over-reaction by the subconscious mind which produces feelings inappropriate to the situation and circumstance. It imagines danger and so produces fear where no real reason for that fear exists.The truth is, of course, that the subconscious mind cannot tell the difference between that which is imagined and that which is real.
You only have to think about sucking on a lemon to prove this to yourself. An imaginary lemon can produce exactly the same effect as a real lemon - tightening of jaw muscles, increased salivation - because for the subconscious mind there really is no difference between the imagined and the real.With agoraphobia and panic, the subconscious mind has got things wrong. It imagines that a harmless and essentially non-threatening situation is inherently threatening and dangerous and so it responds as though the individual were in real danger by flooding the body with adrenalin - in much the same way that an imagined lemon floods the mouth with saliva - and this in turn produces feelings of anxiety and panic.
Through the medium of transformational hypnotherapy, we can adjust false beliefs and perceptions held by the subconscious mind and correctly align them with reality. Once we have understood the origin of the subconscious mind's faulty perception, we are in a position to correct and neutralise it, thereby freeing the person to move on with their life, free of this really restricting, confining condition.There really is no need to continue to experience agoraphobia and panic. If agoraphobia disorder is a part of your life, real help is available:
Transformational hypnotherapy can indeed provide effective agoraphobia treatment leading to an effective agoraphobia cure.A leading British hypno-psychotherapist, with practices in London and Birmingham, UK, Peter Field is the author of many articles on psychotherapy and hypnosis. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Health and Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.More of his interesting articles and other useful information can be found on his website: http://www.peterfieldhypnotherapy.co.uk/Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_James_Field
From my own experience of family members actually having the condition, effecting a cure is certainly not such a simple process as the above article would have you believe. In fact the very nature of the condition prevents people from making themselves available to this type of treatment. I welcome comments from anyone who has tried transformational hypnotherapy and can share their experience.
About Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is a very debilatating condition that has a huge impact on the quality of life of those people who suffer with it. The intention of this blog is to bring together sources of information, case studies and peoples actual experience of the condition.
I am not in any way a medical expert and can not give any medical or clinical advice. I have however experienced Agrophibia first hand, at differing levels and intensities, in friends and family members. I have also to a lesser degree, suffered with the illness myself.
I feel that there are many so called experts who offer the miracle cure, or who profess to have the answer to all your problems but who actually take a very simplistic attitude to the subject. They simply mix it in the pot along with fear of spiders and addiction to smoking - claiming that such things can easily be overcome by therapy and of course by emptying you wallet.
My aim with this blog is to build a resource that will be useful to long time sufferers, people who find themselves developing the condition and also for those who find themselves indirectly involved. Over time we can put together a collection of articles from many sources, views of experts in the field and stories of real people with real experiences to share.
I am not in any way a medical expert and can not give any medical or clinical advice. I have however experienced Agrophibia first hand, at differing levels and intensities, in friends and family members. I have also to a lesser degree, suffered with the illness myself.
I feel that there are many so called experts who offer the miracle cure, or who profess to have the answer to all your problems but who actually take a very simplistic attitude to the subject. They simply mix it in the pot along with fear of spiders and addiction to smoking - claiming that such things can easily be overcome by therapy and of course by emptying you wallet.
My aim with this blog is to build a resource that will be useful to long time sufferers, people who find themselves developing the condition and also for those who find themselves indirectly involved. Over time we can put together a collection of articles from many sources, views of experts in the field and stories of real people with real experiences to share.
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