Experts believe that agoraphobia is a complication of a panic disorder. Most people avoid situations where they feel panic and thus live very sheltered lives. Unfortunately, the cause of agoraphobia is unknown. The disorder usually develops in late teens or early adulthood. It is estimated that 1-5 percent of individuals develop agoraphobia during their lifetime. Women are more prone to agoraphobia than men.
In some cases, fear of having a panic attack may be so great that one may not be able to leave safety of their home. In other cases, one learns to live a restricted lifestyle and is able to tolerate certain situations as long as one is accompanied by a dependent family member or friend. Risk factors that predispose to agoraphobia include having a panic disorder, a stress full experience earlier in life (child abuse), alcohol or substance abuse.
Agoraphobia can lead to social isolation, depression and make one overtly dependent on others. The despair often leads to alcohol and substance abuse to help cope with the situation of hopelessness and loneliness.
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