-
Step 1
Know the demographics. Approximately twice more women than men develop agoraphobia, although this is thought to be due to cultural differences and social factors. It is more permissible for women to be fearful or unable to cope with a mental disorder than men. Also, men may not seek treatment as often as women which may mean that males are not fully represented in the statistics.
-
Step 2
Understand how the disorder works. This is not a consciously chosen reaction nor a deliberate avoidance behavior--agoraphobic attacks can happen any time--even when the person is deeply asleep. The body experiences a surge of adrenaline and the fight-or-flight reaction is tripped. These attacks can be very short in duration, but they tend to come in waves that can last for hours or several days.
-
Step 3
Realize how debilitating this disorder can be. This is a condition where a person’s world grows smaller and smaller each day. People often get so afraid that they may live in only one or two rooms of their house. Some become bed-bound for days or weeks. At its worst, an attack can cause a person to be unable to recognize their own family members. Hospitalization is often required for people who become this secluded and unable to function.
-
Step 4
Understand the coping techniques of agoraphobic persons. Many people choose a safe person or persons to hold onto during their illness, who they feel safe enough around to function. It is usually a person that they believe will not judge them if they lose control due to panic.
-
Step 5
Know the disorder’s biologic components. Considered to be a brain stem disease, its causation can include drug abuse, alcoholism, genetics and inflammatory disease. Patients become overly aware of their bodies and often relate normal functions, such as a higher pulse rate or shortness of breath from exertion, to the onset of panic. This fear of panic attacks will trigger them.
-
Step 6
Know the treatments commonly used with agoraphobic patients. Graduated exposure therapy (slowly getting the patient used to places or situations) often works with good results. Cognitive therapy (working with changing unhealthy thought processes) and anti-anxiety medications are also used. Some patients benefit from hypnosis and relaxation techniques.
-
Step 7
Understand the prognosis. Most people with agoraphobia recover completely and live very normal lives with counseling, medications and support.
