Although agoraphobia is thought of as a fear of open spaces, the real underlying fear is more complex, encompassing several aspects of daily life.
Dr Gill Jenkins last medically reviewed this article in July 2011.
The phobias or fears in agoraphobia involve activities such as leaving home, entering public places or travelling alone. In these situations the person feels especially vulnerable and exposed, with nowhere to escape to or hide if things go wrong.
An unusual but not uncommon feature of agoraphobia is a fear of crossing bridges (known as gephyrophobia). This has nothing to do with huge drops from the side of a bridge, but is related to a feeling that, once on the bridge, there is no immediately available exit.
The degree of fear and avoidance behaviour varies. Although many sufferers do manage to get out to work, some become completely housebound.
People with agoraphobia are more likely to have to other phobias too, including, paradoxically, claustrophobia (the fear of enclosed spaces).
Agoraphobia typically affects women and begins in early adulthood. They may have other psychological problems too, especially:
Unless agoraphobia is treated it can go on for many years, completely distorting the way a person leads their life.
There are effective treatments that will help most people return to a normal life, or at least learn to cope with aspects of their phobia. These include:
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Agoraphobia sufferer Sarah talks to Ruby Wax about how the condition affects her life.
The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook, Edmund J. Bourne, 2005. This book explains cognitive-behavioural techniques in a step-by-step format.
How to Cope with Panic Attacks, Sarah Teevan and Janet Gorman, 2006. A MIND booklet that aims to explain why panic attacks happen and gives sources of help.
Understanding Anxiety, Karen Cruse, 2009. A Mind booklet on the causes of anxiety, its effects and how to reduce it, as well as how to reassure and support those who have the condition.
Overcoming Anxiety, Helen Kennerley, 2009. A guide explaining how to overcome problem fears and anxieties.
Anxiety UK offers advice and support as well as access to therapies for sufferers of all anxiety disorders and phobias.
Anxiety Care is a charity that specialises in helping people to recover from anxiety disorders.
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