Agoraphobia

Question 1

Who does agoraphobia affect?

Answer 1

-Least common of the anxiety disorders
-Tends to be more common in women
-Peak onset is 25-35 years
-Affects up to 1/3 of patients with panic disorders

Question 2

What causes agoraphobia?

Answer 2

-Defined as a fear of open spaces, especially those in which getaway may be difficult, leading to avoidance of the situation
-Being in a provoking situation usually leads to an anxiety attack
-3 key elements:
–Phobia
–Avoidance of situations provoking the anxiety
–Severe anxiety

Question 3

How does agoraphobia present?

Answer 3

Marked fear / anxiety about two or more of the following 5 groups of situations:
-Public transport
-Open spaces
-Being in shops, theatres or cinemas
-Standing in line or being in a crowd
-Leaving the house alone

Question 4

What are the differential diagnoses for agoraphobia?

Answer 4

-Social anxiety disorder
-GAD
-Depression
-PTSD

Question 5

What treatment would you consider?

Answer 5

(Same as panic disorder)
-Step 1: recognition and diagnosis
-Step 2: treatment in PC