Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear or anxiety about being in situations or places where escape may be difficult or help may not be available if a panic attack or other disabling symptoms occur. People with agoraphobia may avoid or experience significant distress in situations such as being outside of their home alone, being in a crowd or standing in a line, being in enclosed spaces such as theaters or public transportation, or traveling in a car, bus, or airplane.

The signs and symptoms of agoraphobia can include panic attacks, sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness or lightheadedness, nausea, and feeling like losing control or dying. People with agoraphobia may also experience anticipatory anxiety or fear of future panic attacks or situations that trigger panic.

Diagnosing agoraphobia requires a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional. The clinician will assess the individual's history and symptoms, including their avoidance behavior and the impact on their daily life. They may also use standardized rating scales to measure the severity of symptoms and impairment. The diagnosis of agoraphobia may also involve ruling out other mental health disorders that can present similar symptoms.

The exact causes of agoraphobia are not fully understood, but research suggests that genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental factors may play a role. Traumatic life events, such as physical or emotional abuse, can also increase the risk of developing agoraphobia.

Treatment for agoraphobia typically involves a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that can be particularly effective for agoraphobia. CBT aims to help individuals identify and change negative patterns of thinking and behavior related to their anxiety. Exposure therapy, a type of CBT that involves gradually confronting feared situations, can also be helpful in desensitizing individuals to their triggers. Medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, stress reduction techniques, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine may also be recommended.