Agorafobia
Diagnostyka i diagnoza

Agorafobia to zaburzenie lękowe charakteryzujące się intensywnym lękiem lub niepokojem w co najmniej dwóch z pięciu sytuacji: korzystanie z transportu publicznego, przebywanie w otwartych lub zamkniętych przestrzeniach, stanie w tłumie lub kolejce oraz przebywanie samotnie poza domem. Kryteria diagnostyczne DSM-5-TR wymagają, aby lęk był nieproporcjonalny do rzeczywistego zagrożenia, utrzymywał się zwykle przez minimum 6 miesięcy i powodował klinicznie istotne upośledzenie funkcjonowania. Diagnostyka obejmuje szczegółowy wywiad kliniczny, badanie fizykalne oraz badania laboratoryjne w celu wykluczenia somatycznych przyczyn objawów, takich jak nadczynność tarczycy. W diagnostyce różnicowej należy uwzględnić zaburzenia paniczne, fobię społeczną, fobie specyficzne, zaburzenia depresyjne, PTSD, OCD oraz zaburzenia dysmorficzne ciała, a także wykluczyć wpływ substancji psychoaktywnych i innych stanów medycznych.

Agorafobia – diagnostyka

Agorafobia to zaburzenie lękowe charakteryzujące się intensywnym lękiem lub niepokojem związanym z miejscami lub sytuacjami, z których ucieczka może być trudna lub w których pomoc może być niedostępna w przypadku wystąpienia objawów podobnych do ataku paniki. Prawidłowa diagnostyka tego zaburzenia ma kluczowe znaczenie dla skutecznego leczenia i poprawy jakości życia pacjenta.12

Kryteria diagnostyczne

Według klasyfikacji DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision), aby zdiagnozować agorafobię, pacjent musi doświadczać wyraźnego lęku lub niepokoju w co najmniej dwóch z pięciu następujących sytuacji:12

  • Korzystanie z transportu publicznego (np. autobusy, pociągi, samoloty)
  • Przebywanie w otwartych przestrzeniach (np. parkingi, place targowe, mosty)
  • Przebywanie w zamkniętych przestrzeniach (np. sklepy, teatry, kina)
  • Stanie w kolejce lub przebywanie w tłumie
  • Przebywanie poza domem samotnie

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Aby spełnić kryteria diagnostyczne, muszą również wystąpić następujące warunki:12

  • Osoba obawia się tych sytuacji ze względu na myśli, że ucieczka może być trudna lub pomoc może być niedostępna w przypadku wystąpienia objawów podobnych do paniki lub innych obezwładniających czy zawstydzających objawów
  • Sytuacje agorafobiczne prawie zawsze wywołują nieproporcjonalny strach lub niepokój
  • Sytuacje są aktywnie unikane, znoszone z intensywnym lękiem lub niepokojem, lub wymagają obecności osoby towarzyszącej
  • Strach lub niepokój jest nieproporcjonalny do rzeczywistego zagrożenia stwarzanego przez sytuacje agorafobiczne i do kontekstu społeczno-kulturowego
  • Strach, niepokój lub unikanie utrzymują się, zwykle przez 6 miesięcy lub dłużej
  • Strach, niepokój lub unikanie powodują klinicznie istotny dyskomfort lub upośledzenie w ważnych obszarach funkcjonowania

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Proces diagnostyczny

Diagnostyka agorafobii obejmuje kompleksową ocenę przez lekarza lub specjalistę w dziedzinie zdrowia psychicznego (psychiatrę lub psychologa). Proces diagnostyczny zazwyczaj składa się z następujących elementów:12

Wywiad kliniczny

Dokładny wywiad kliniczny jest podstawą diagnostyki agorafobii. Lekarz lub specjalista zdrowia psychicznego przeprowadza szczegółową rozmowę z pacjentem, pytając o:12

  • Opis objawów – jakie są, jak często występują i w jakich sytuacjach
  • Początek i czas trwania objawów
  • Wpływ objawów na codzienne funkcjonowanie
  • Konkretne sytuacje, których pacjent unika
  • Potrzebę osoby towarzyszącej w określonych sytuacjach
  • Wcześniejsze doświadczenia z atakami paniki
  • Historie rodzinne zaburzeń lękowych lub innych zaburzeń psychicznych

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W trakcie wywiadu klinicysta może zadać pytania takie jak:1

  • Czy unikasz jakichś sytuacji lub miejsc, ponieważ obawiasz się, że mogą wywołać objawy?
  • Jak Twoje objawy wpływają na Twoje życie i osoby Ci najbliższe?
  • Czy czujesz niepokój związany z przebywaniem w miejscach, z których trudno byłoby uciec lub w których pomoc mogłaby być niedostępna w przypadku wystąpienia objawów paniki?

1

Badanie fizykalne i laboratoryjne

Aby wykluczyć stany fizyczne mogące powodować lub nasilać objawy podobne do agorafobii, lekarz może przeprowadzić:12

  • Badanie fizykalne
  • Badania krwi, aby wykluczyć schorzenia takie jak nadczynność tarczycy, które mogą imitować objawy lękowe
  • Inne badania diagnostyczne w zależności od indywidualnej sytuacji klinicznej

1

Wykluczenie chorób somatycznych jest kluczowym etapem w procesie diagnostycznym, ponieważ niektóre schorzenia mogą powodować objawy podobne do agorafobii.1 Agorafobia nie powinna być diagnozowana, jeśli objawy wynikają bezpośrednio z chorób somatycznych, a modyfikacje behawioralne są dokonywane w celu uniknięcia konsekwencji tych chorób, np. strach przed utratą przytomności w miejscu publicznym z powodu patologii sercowo-naczyniowej lub strach przed rozwojem biegunki u osoby z chorobą zapalną jelit.12

Narzędzia diagnostyczne

W procesie diagnostycznym mogą być stosowane różne narzędzia oceny, takie jak:12

  • Kwestionariusze samooceny lęku
  • Skala Paniki i Agorafobii (PAS – Panic and Agoraphobia Scale)
  • Kwestionariusz Lęku (Fear Questionnaire), który został zaprojektowany specjalnie dla osób z fobiami
  • Inne wystandaryzowane narzędzia oceny zgodne z kryteriami DSM-5 lub ICD-11

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Diagnostyka różnicowa

W procesie diagnostycznym ważne jest, aby odróżnić agorafobię od innych zaburzeń psychicznych, które mogą mieć podobne objawy. Diagnostyka różnicowa obejmuje:12

Zaburzenia lękowe
  • Zaburzenie lękowe z napadami paniki: W przypadku zaburzenia panicznego głównym punktem są same ataki paniki, podczas gdy w agorafobii nacisk kładzie się na strach przed określonymi sytuacjami. Osoby z zaburzeniem panicznym mogą unikać sytuacji tylko dlatego, że doświadczyły w nich ataków paniki. W przeciwieństwie do tego, agorafobia obejmuje szerszy zakres unikanych sytuacji.
  • Fobia społeczna (zaburzenie lęku społecznego): W tym przypadku lęk koncentruje się głównie na obawach związanych z interakcjami społecznymi i oceną ze strony innych, podczas gdy agorafobia dotyczy bardziej strachu przed określonymi miejscami lub sytuacjami. Fobia społeczna często prowadzi do unikania wydarzeń społecznych, podczas gdy agorafobia wiąże się z unikaniem różnych przestrzeni publicznych lub sytuacji.
  • Fobie specyficzne: Dotyczą konkretnych obiektów lub sytuacji, takich jak wysokość, pająki czy latanie samolotem.
  • Zaburzenie lękowe uogólnione: Charakteryzuje się ciągłym, nadmiernym lękiem i zamartwianiem się różnymi wydarzeniami lub aktywnościami, ale nie jest to związane z konkretnymi sytuacjami czy miejscami.

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Inne zaburzenia

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Istotne jest również wykluczenie, że objawy nie są spowodowane bezpośrednimi skutkami fizjologicznymi substancji (np. narkotyków, leków) lub stanem medycznym (np. nadczynność tarczycy).12

Zmiany w diagnostyce agorafobii na przestrzeni lat

Warto zauważyć, że podejście do diagnostyki agorafobii zmieniło się na przestrzeni lat. W DSM-IV agorafobia była traktowana jako specyfikator dla zaburzenia panicznego i klasyfikowana jako „zaburzenie paniczne z agorafobią” lub „agorafobia bez historii zaburzenia panicznego”. Natomiast w DSM-5 agorafobia została oddzielona od zaburzenia panicznego i uznana za odrębne zaburzenie, które może występować niezależnie lub współwystępować z zaburzeniem panicznym.12

Rozdzielenie tych dwóch zaburzeń odzwierciedla obecne rozumienie, że agorafobia jest odrębnym zaburzeniem, które może istnieć niezależnie od obecności lub braku zaburzenia panicznego. Jeśli objawy pacjenta spełniają kryteria zarówno zaburzenia panicznego, jak i agorafobii, oba rozpoznania powinny być postawione.12

Konsekwencje diagnostyki i znaczenie wczesnego rozpoznania

Prawidłowa i wczesna diagnostyka agorafobii ma kluczowe znaczenie dla skutecznego leczenia i poprawy jakości życia pacjenta. DSM-5-TR charakteryzuje typowy przebieg agorafobii jako „uporczywy i przewlekły”, przy czym całkowita remisja bez leczenia lub interwencji jest rzadkością.12

Wskaźniki remisji są niższe u osób z cięższą postacią agorafobii. Prawdopodobieństwo korzystnego rokowania jest dodatkowo zmniejszone, gdy występują choroby współistniejące, takie jak inne zaburzenia lękowe, depresja, zaburzenia osobowości lub zaburzenia związane z używaniem substancji.12

Wczesne leczenie jest ważne dla poprawy stanu pacjenta z agorafobią. Jeśli doświadczasz lęku związanego z wychodzeniem z domu lub masz ataki paniki, powinieneś jak najszybciej skonsultować się z lekarzem. Wczesna interwencja może zapobiec nasileniu się objawów.12

Nieleczona agorafobia może prowadzić do izolacji społecznej, depresji i znacznego obniżenia jakości życia. Obecność agorafobii wiąże się ze znacznym upośledzeniem funkcjonowania, stopniem niepełnosprawności i bezrobociem.12

Możliwości leczenia po diagnozie

Po postawieniu diagnozy agorafobii, dostępne są skuteczne metody leczenia, które mogą pomóc pacjentowi zarządzać swoimi objawami i poprawić jakość życia. Leczenie zazwyczaj obejmuje:12

Psychoterapia
  • Terapia poznawczo-behawioralna (CBT): Jeden z najskuteczniejszych rodzajów psychoterapii w leczeniu agorafobii. CBT pomaga pacjentom modyfikować lub eliminować wzorce myślowe przyczyniające się do objawów i zmienić zachowanie.
  • Terapia ekspozycyjna: Forma terapii behawioralnej, w której pacjent jest stopniowo wystawiany na sytuacje wywołujące lęk. Terapia ekspozycyjna pomaga w ponad 90% przypadków.
  • Inne formy psychoterapii, które mogą być dostosowane do indywidualnych potrzeb pacjenta.

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Farmakoterapia

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Warto zauważyć, że zarówno rozpoczęcie, jak i zakończenie kursu leków przeciwdepresyjnych może powodować skutki uboczne, które tworzą nieprzyjemne odczucia fizyczne lub nawet objawy podobne do ataku paniki. Ponadto, leki benzodiazepinowe nie są już zalecane w leczeniu zaburzenia panicznego lub agorafobii.12

Podejście łączne

Najlepsze wyniki w leczeniu agorafobii często osiąga się poprzez kombinację lub sekwencyjne stosowanie psychoterapii i farmakoterapii. Decyzje dotyczące leczenia będą uzależnione od nasilenia objawów i preferencji pacjenta.12

W przypadku agorafobii, która ma większy wpływ na funkcjonowanie jednostki, prawdopodobnie będzie ona korzystać z kombinacji psychoterapii i leków. SSRI podawany w maksymalnie tolerowanej dawce powinien być próbowany przez co najmniej sześć tygodni. Przy monitorowaniu odpowiedzi klinicznej na SSRI lub SNRI ważne jest, aby pamiętać, że odpowiedź terapeutyczna będzie wymagała dwóch lub więcej tygodni dla efektu przeciwlękowego.12

Wnioski

Diagnostyka agorafobii jest złożonym procesem, który wymaga dokładnej oceny klinicznej i różnicowej. Wczesne rozpoznanie i leczenie agorafobii może znacznie poprawić rokowanie i jakość życia pacjenta. Dlatego, jeśli podejrzewasz u siebie lub u kogoś bliskiego objawy agorafobii, ważne jest, aby skonsultować się z lekarzem lub specjalistą zdrowia psychicznego w celu przeprowadzenia odpowiedniej oceny i rozpoczęcia leczenia.12

Należy pamiętać, że zaburzenie to poddaje się leczeniu, a wczesna interwencja może zapobiec rozwinięciu się bardziej przewlekłej i zaawansowanej postaci zaburzenia. Dzięki odpowiedniej kombinacji psychoterapii, farmakoterapii i wsparcia, większość osób z agorafobią może nauczyć się skutecznie zarządzać swoimi objawami i prowadzić pełne, aktywne życie.12

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 10.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Agoraphobia – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554387/
    Agoraphobia is characterized by anxiety or fear arising from thoughts that escape may be difficult or help may be unavailable in certain situations. This activity reviews the diagnostic criteria and key characteristics of agoraphobia, highlighting the crucial role of the interprofessional team in the assessment and management of the condition. […] Agoraphobia is diagnosed according to DSM-5-TR criteria when an individual experiences marked fear or anxiety about at least 2 of the following 5 situations: using public transportation, being in open spaces, being in enclosed spaces, standing in line or being in a crowd, or being outside the home alone. These situations almost always trigger disproportionate fear or anxiety, leading the individual to actively avoid them and resulting in clinically significant distress or functional impairment. This fear or anxiety cannot be attributed to a realistic threat, sociocultural factors, or substance use or withdrawal. Symptoms must persist for at least 6 months to confirm the diagnosis of agoraphobia.
  • #1 Agoraphobia: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15769-agoraphobia
    Agoraphobia is manageable with treatment, which includes medication, cognitive behavioral therapy and lifestyle changes. The earlier you receive a diagnosis and treatment, the more likely treatment will work. […] If you think you have agoraphobia, and the anxiety is interfering with your daily life, you should talk to a primary care physician or a mental healthcare provider, like a psychiatrist or psychologist. […] A healthcare provider can diagnose agoraphobia based on your symptoms, how often they happen and how severe they are. […] Your provider may diagnose agoraphobia if you meet specific standards developed by the American Psychiatric Association. To have a diagnosis of agoraphobia, a person must feel extreme fear or panic in at least two of the following situations: Using public transportation, Being in an open space, Being in an enclosed space, such as a movie theater, meeting room or small store, Standing in a line or being in a crowd, Being out of their home alone.
  • #1 Agoraphobia – PsychDB
    https://www.psychdb.com/anxiety/agoraphobia
    Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder where an individual has intense fears about at least two different types of situations, with the fear being that escape may be difficult or help may be unavailable if panic-like symptoms occur. […] The DSM-5 created agoraphobia as a separate diagnosis, whereas in the previous version, DSM-IV, panic disorder could be diagnosed as panic disorder with agoraphobia or panic disorder without agoraphobia. […] Agoraphobia is diagnosed irrespective of the presence of panic disorder. If an individual’s presentation meets criteria for panic disorder and agoraphobia, both diagnoses should be assigned. […] The fear or anxiety is out of proportion to the actual danger posed by the agoraphobic situations and to the sociocultural context. […] The fear, anxiety, or avoidance is persistent, typically lasting for 6 months or more.
  • #1 Agoraphobia – PsychDB
    https://www.psychdb.com/anxiety/agoraphobia
    The fear, anxiety, or avoidance causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. […] When diagnostic criteria for agoraphobia and another disorder are fully met, both diagnoses should be assigned, unless the fear, anxiety, or avoidance of agoraphobia is attributable to the other disorder. […] Agoraphobia should not be diagnosed if the avoidance behaviors associated with the panic attacks do not extend to avoidance of 2 or more agoraphobic situations. […] Agoraphobia is not diagnosed if the avoidance of situations is due to a physiological consequence of a medical condition, based on history, laboratory findings, and a physical examination.
  • #1 Agoraphobia – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/agoraphobia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355993
    Agoraphobia is diagnosed based on: […] In-depth interview with your health care provider or a mental health provider. […] Physical exam to rule out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms. […] Certain types of antidepressants are often used to treat agoraphobia. […] Antidepressants are more effective than anti-anxiety medicines in the treatment of agoraphobia. […] Antidepressants also are used for other mental health conditions, such as depression. […] It may take weeks for medicine to help manage symptoms. […] Both starting and ending a course of antidepressants can cause side effects that create uncomfortable physical sensations or even panic attack symptoms. […] Your health care provider or mental health provider will likely ask you a number of questions, such as: […] Do you avoid any situations or places because you fear they’ll cause symptoms? […] How are your symptoms affecting your life and the people closest to you?
  • #1 Diagnosis – Agoraphobia – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/agoraphobia/diagnosis/
    Speak to your GP if you think you have agoraphobia. […] Your GP will ask you to describe your symptoms, how often they occur, and in what situations. It’s very important to tell your GP about how you’ve been feeling and how your symptoms are affecting you. […] Your GP may want to do a physical examination, and in some cases they may decide to carry out blood tests to look for signs of any physical conditions that could be causing your symptoms. […] By ruling out any underlying medical conditions, your GP will be able to make the correct diagnosis. […] A diagnosis of agoraphobia can usually be made if: you’re anxious about being in a place or situation where escape or help may be difficult if you feel panicky or have a panic attack, such as in a crowd or on a bus; you avoid situations described above, or endure them with extreme anxiety or the help of a companion; there’s no other underlying condition that may explain your symptoms. […] If there’s any doubt about the diagnosis, you may be referred to a psychiatrist for a more detailed assessment.
  • #1 Treating panic disorder and agoraphobia | Open Arms
    https://www.openarms.gov.au/health-professionals/assessment-and-treatment/treating-anxiety/treating-panic-disorder-and-agoraphobia
    In the previous 12 months it is estimated that up to 17% of transitioned ADF were affected by panic attacks, and 12% by agoraphopia. […] No single tool is available for diagnosing panic disorder or agoraphopia, however a combination of screening tools and questions that may assist diagnosis are presented below. […] Agoraphobia is a separate diagnosis that involves experiencing marked fear of situations where panic symptoms may occur. The fear of panic attacks can lead to significant avoidant behaviour. […] Agoraphobia involves marked fear or anxiety about situations where: escape might be difficult, help might not be available in the event of a panic attack. […] Veterans may be screened for agoraphobia with a question from the MINI: In the past month, have you felt anxious or uneasy in places or situations where you might have a panic attack or panic-like symptoms, or where help might not be available or escape might be difficult?
  • #1 Agoraphobia – Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Risk, and More
    https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/agoraphobia/
    Agoraphobia is diagnosed based on symptoms and signs specific to the disorder, your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms, including when they began, their intensity, and how often you experience the symptoms. […] A medical professional may also ask about your family history to find out whether the condition was genetically passed down. Their goal is to rule out other possible causes for these symptoms. Your doctor might also perform blood tests to help rule out any physical causes of your symptoms.
  • #1 Agoraphobia – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554387/
    The DSM-5-TR characterizes the typical course of agoraphobia as „persistent and chronic,” with complete remission being rare without treatment or intervention. Rates of remission are lower in individuals with more severe agoraphobia. The likelihood of a favorable prognosis is further diminished when comorbid conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, personality disorders, or substance use disorders are present. […] Agoraphobia should not be diagnosed if the fears stem from underlying medical conditions, and the behavioral modifications are made to avoid the consequences of these conditions, such as the fear of losing consciousness in public due to cardiovascular pathology or the fear of developing diarrhea in someone with inflammatory bowel disease.
  • #1 Pulsenotes | Agoraphobia
    https://app.pulsenotes.com/specialities/psychiatry/notes/agoraphobia
    Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterised by an excessive fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help might not be readily available. […] We will explore the features of agoraphobia in detail in the diagnosis section below. […] Both DSM-V and ICD-11 can be used as frameworks to aid the clinical diagnosis of agoraphobia. Below the diagnosis of agoraphobia is outlined using DSM-V criteria: Marked fear or anxiety about two or more of the following 5 situations: Using public transportation (e.g. buses, trains, planes), Being in open spaces (e.g. bridges, parking lots), Being in enclosed spaces (e.g. shops, cinema, theatre), Standing in line or being in a crowd, Being outside of the home alone. […] The individual fears these situations because, in the event of developing panic-like symptoms or other embarrassing or incapacitating symptoms (e.g. falls, incontinence), they have thoughts that: Escape might be difficult, OR Help might not be available.
  • #1 Treating panic disorder and agoraphobia | Open Arms
    https://www.openarms.gov.au/health-professionals/assessment-and-treatment/treating-anxiety/treating-panic-disorder-and-agoraphobia
    In diagnosing panic disorder, it is important to establish that the panic attacks are occurring unexpectedly and, not in the context of another anxiety disorder. […] Psychological interventions are the preferred approach for the treatment of panic and agoraphobia. However, pharmacotherapy may be considered in moderate to severe cases, where psychological treatment is not acceptable or available, or fails to produce a sufficient response. […] Benzodiazepines are no longer recommended for the treatment of panic disorder or agoraphobia.
  • #1 Assessment and Diagnosis – The Phobia Solution
    https://phobiasolution.com/agoraphobia-guide/assessment-and-diagnosis
    Agoraphobia should be diagnosed when symptoms are predominant and disabling. Panic disorder and agoraphobia can co-exist. If so, both should be diagnosed. Distinction between agoraphobia with and without a history of panic disorder. […] To diagnose agoraphobia, clinicians dont rely on diagnostic criteria alone. They use a combination of clinical interviews and assessment tools. […] Panic disorder is one of the primary differentials for agoraphobia. It is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, which may or may not be associated with specific triggers. While agoraphobia often accompanies panic disorder, they can also occur independently. Distinguishing features include: In panic disorder, the primary focus is on the panic attacks themselves, whereas in agoraphobia, the focus is on the fear of specific situations. Individuals with panic disorder may avoid situations only because they have experienced panic attacks in those situations. In contrast, agoraphobia involves a broader range of avoided situations.
  • #1 How Do I Know If I’m an Agoraphobic? Symptoms, Treatment
    https://www.emedicinehealth.com/how_do_i_know_if_im_an_agoraphobic/article_em.htm
    Agoraphobia is diagnosed with a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. […] The DSM-5 criteria for a diagnosis of agoraphobia include: Marked fear or anxiety about two or more of the following situations: Using public transportation, Being in open spaces, Being in enclosed places, Standing in line or being in a crowd, Being outside the home alone. […] The fear, anxiety, or avoidance is not better explained by the symptoms of another mental disorder and are not related exclusively to: A specific situation, as in specific phobia, situational type, Social situations, as in social anxiety disorder, Obsessions, as in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Perceived defects or flaws in physical appearance, as in body dysmorphic disorder, Reminders of traumatic events, as in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Fear of separation, as in separation anxiety disorder. […] Agoraphobia is not the same diagnosis as panic disorder. If a person meets the criteria for panic disorder and agoraphobia, they would be diagnosed with both conditions.
  • #1
    https://www.pediatriconcall.com/calculators/panic-disorder-and-agoraphobia-criteria-changes-from-dsm-iv-to-dsm-5
    A marked fear or anxiety about two (or more) of the following five situations: […] The situations are avoided (e.g., travel is restricted) or else are endured with marked distress or with anxiety about having a panic attack or panic-like symptoms, or require the presence of a companion. […] The fear or anxiety is out of proportion to the actual danger posed by the agoraphobic situations and to the sociocultural context. […] The fear, anxiety, or avoidance is persistent, typically lasting 6 months or more. […] The anxiety or phobic avoidance is not better accounted for by another mental disorder. […] The individual fears or avoids these situations because of thoughts that escape might be difficult or help might not be available in the event of developing panic-like symptoms or other incapacitating or embarrassing symptoms. […] The panic attacks are not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g., a drug of abuse or a medication) or a general medical condition.
  • #1 Agoraphobia – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agoraphobia
    Agoraphobia is best understood as an adverse behavioral outcome of repeated panic attacks and subsequent anxiety and preoccupation with these attacks that leads to an avoidance of situations where a panic attack could occur. […] Agoraphobia is typically determined when symptoms are worse than panic disorder, but also do not meet the criteria for other mental disorders such as depression. […] Agoraphobia without a history of panic disorder (also called primary agoraphobia) is an anxiety disorder where the individual with the diagnosis does not meet the DSM-5 criteria for panic disorder. […] According to the DSM-IV-TR, a widely-used manual for diagnosing mental disorders, the condition is diagnosed when agoraphobia is present without panic disorder where symptoms are not caused by or are unreasonable to an underlying medical problem or pharmacological influence. […] The DSM-5 decoupled agoraphobia and panic disorder, making them separate disorders that can be diagnosed together. […] Most people who present to mental health specialists develop agoraphobia after the onset of panic disorder.
  • #1 Agoraphobia – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/agoraphobia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355987
    Agoraphobia treatment can be challenging because it means confronting your fears. […] Don’t let agoraphobia make your world smaller. Call your health care provider or a mental health professional if you have symptoms of agoraphobia or panic attacks. […] If you experience anxiety going places or have panic attacks, get treatment as soon as possible. Get help early to keep symptoms from getting worse. Anxiety, like many other mental health conditions, can be harder to treat if you wait.
  • #1 Agoraphobia in adults: Epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, course, and diagnosis – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/agoraphobia-in-adults-epidemiology-pathogenesis-clinical-manifestations-course-and-diagnosis
    Agoraphobia is defined in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) as fear or anxiety about and/or avoidance of situations where help may not be available or where it may be difficult to leave the situation in the event of developing panic-like symptoms or other incapacitating or embarrassing symptoms. […] The epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, course, and diagnosis of agoraphobia in adults are reviewed here. […] The presence of agoraphobia is associated with significant impairment in functioning, degree of disability, and unemployment. […] Although the likelihood of agoraphobia is increased when panic symptoms are present, agoraphobia can occur alone or concurrently with panic disorder.
  • #1 Agoraphobia | Psychology Today
    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/conditions/agoraphobia
    The success of treatment usually depends on the severity of the phobia. […] Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help patients modify or eliminate thought patterns contributing to the symptoms and help them change behavior. […] Treatment may be complicated when patients have difficulty getting to appointments because of their fears. […] Patients who experience panic attacks as part of their agoraphobia may benefit from prescription medication to prevent panic attacks or reduce their frequency and severity, and to decrease the associated anticipatory anxiety. […] Some patients with anxiety disorders may benefit from the combination or sequential use of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy treatment modalities.
  • #1 Agoraphobia – Mental Health Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/anxiety-and-stressor-related-disorders/agoraphobia
    Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder. […] Doctors diagnose agoraphobia when the fear, anxiety, or avoidance lasts 6 months or more and involves at least 2 of the following situations: […] The fears must involve concerns that escape might be difficult or that help will be unavailable if people panic or become incapacitated. […] In addition, all of the following must be present: […] Symptoms cause significant distress or significantly impair functioning. […] Symptoms are not caused by another mental disorder such as social anxiety, or a general medical condition such as inflammatory bowel disease. […] Exposure therapy helps more than 90% of people. […] Cognitive-behavioral therapy may also help. […] People with agoraphobia may benefit from taking an SSRI.
  • #1 Pulsenotes | Agoraphobia
    https://app.pulsenotes.com/specialities/psychiatry/notes/agoraphobia
    The fear or anxiety is: Almost always provoked by the situations, Disproportionate to the actual danger posed by the situation. […] The fear, anxiety, or avoidance behaviours are described as being persistent (i.e. lasting for 6 months) and causing the affected individual significant distress or functional impairment (i.e. social, occupational, or other important aspects of functioning). […] In agoraphobia, panic attacks tend to be predictable and occur in the context of the avoided situation that differs from panic disorder. […] Agoraphobia can be treated with talking therapies, pharmacotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. […] Decisions around treatment will be guided by the severity of the presentation and patient preference. […] For agoraphobia that has a more severe impact on an individual’s functioning, they are likely to benefit from a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
  • #1 Agoraphobia | Psychology Today
    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/conditions/agoraphobia
    For agoraphobia to be considered as a diagnosis, the agoraphobic situations must almost always create fear and anxiety that is out of proportion to the actual danger posed; the distress typically lasts for a minimum of six months. […] A person may be described as having agoraphobia if other mental disorders or medical conditions do not provide a better explanation for the symptoms. […] People with agoraphobia can be seriously disabled by their condition. […] The prevalence of agoraphobia is 1.3 percent with an incidence rate of 0.9 percent, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. […] The treatment of phobias is often highly successful. […] The goal of treatment is to help the agoraphobic person function effectively, and the most effective remedy is systematic desensitization, also called exposure therapy.
  • #2 Diagnosis – Agoraphobia – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/agoraphobia/diagnosis/
    Speak to your GP if you think you have agoraphobia. […] Your GP will ask you to describe your symptoms, how often they occur, and in what situations. It’s very important to tell your GP about how you’ve been feeling and how your symptoms are affecting you. […] Your GP may want to do a physical examination, and in some cases they may decide to carry out blood tests to look for signs of any physical conditions that could be causing your symptoms. […] By ruling out any underlying medical conditions, your GP will be able to make the correct diagnosis. […] A diagnosis of agoraphobia can usually be made if: you’re anxious about being in a place or situation where escape or help may be difficult if you feel panicky or have a panic attack, such as in a crowd or on a bus; you avoid situations described above, or endure them with extreme anxiety or the help of a companion; there’s no other underlying condition that may explain your symptoms. […] If there’s any doubt about the diagnosis, you may be referred to a psychiatrist for a more detailed assessment.
  • #2 Agoraphobia – Psychiatric Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/psychiatric-disorders/anxiety-and-stressor-related-disorders/agoraphobia
    Agoraphobia is intense anxiety and/or avoidance of situations (eg, being in crowds or shopping malls, driving) that may be difficult to leave or in which help is not readily available if incapacitating panic-like symptoms were to develop. Diagnosis is based on clinical criteria. […] To meet the DSM-5-TR criteria for agoraphobia, patients must have marked, persistent ( 6 months) fear of or anxiety about 2 or more of the following situations (1): Using public transportation, Being in open spaces (eg, parking lot, marketplace), Being in an enclosed place (eg, shop, theater), Standing in line or being in a crowd, Being alone outside the home. […] In addition, the fear and anxiety cannot be better characterized as a different mental disorder (eg, social anxiety disorder, body dysmorphic disorder).
  • #2 Table 3.10, Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia Criteria Changes from DSM-IV to DSM-5 – Impact of the DSM-IV to DSM-5 Changes on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519704/table/ch3.t10/
    Table 3.10 Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia Criteria Changes from DSM-IV to DSM-5 […] Agoraphobia A marked fear or anxiety about two (or more) of the following five situations: […] The situations are avoided (e.g., travel is restricted) or else are endured with marked distress or with anxiety about having a panic attack or panic-like symptoms, or require the presence of a companion. […] The fear or anxiety is out of proportion to the actual danger posed by the agoraphobic situations and to the sociocultural context. […] The fear, anxiety, or avoidance is persistent, typically lasting 6 months or more. […] The fear, anxiety, or avoidance causes clinically significant distress or impairment in important areas of functioning. […] Agoraphobia The individual fears or avoids these situations because of thoughts that escape might be difficult or help might not be available in the event of developing panic-like symptoms or other incapacitating or embarrassing symptoms.
  • #2 Agoraphobia DSM-5 300.22 (F40.00)
    https://www.theravive.com/therapedia/agoraphobia-dsm–5-300.22-(f40.00)
    Agoraphobia is a DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed.) diagnosis assigned to individuals who have a disproportionate fear of public places, often perceiving such environments as too open, crowded or dangerous. […] All of the below features must be present in order to make a proper diagnosis of agoraphobia: […] Marked and disproportionate fear when confronted with at least two different situations, such as open spaces, public transport or crowded areas. […] An immediate anxiety response such as a panic attack when exposed to the phobic stimulus. […] Recognition of the fear as disproportionate. […] Avoidance behaviors, distress or anticipatory anxiety that significantly disrupts normal routine, relationships, occupational or social activities. […] Symptoms recorded for at least six months across all age groups.
  • #2
    https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/agoraphobia/diagnosis/
    Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder. […] Talk to your GP if you think you have agoraphobia. […] Your GP will ask you about your symptoms, how often they happen, and in what situations. […] This will help them to make the correct diagnosis. […] For a diagnosis, you must feel intense fear or anxiety in 2 or more of the following situations: […] Your GP may decide to refer you onto a specialist mental health professional for further assessment, if necessary. […] Your GP will need to rule out any underlying medical conditions to be able to make the correct diagnosis.
  • #2 Agoraphobia | healthdirect
    https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/agoraphobia
    Agoraphobia is a fear of being in certain situations that may be hard to leave, or where support may not be available. […] Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder that is common in people who have panic disorder and panic attacks. […] Treatments like cognitive behavioural therapy are available to help you manage and overcome agoraphobia. […] To diagnose agoraphobia, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms. The more detailed answers you can give about what you are experiencing, the better. […] They might give you a questionnaire, do some psychological tests, perform a physical check-up. […] Your doctor will make sure there is not another problem that is making you feel this way. […] If you are eligible, they can also help organise a Mental Health Treatment Plan. […] Psychological therapy such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is the most effective way to help treat agoraphobia. […] You may benefit from medications as antidepressants if you have severe anxiety or agoraphobia. […] If you think you might have agoraphobia, speak to your doctor.
  • #2 Agoraphobia | Treatment & Management | Point of Care
    https://www.statpearls.com/point-of-care/17292
    Agoraphobia is diagnosed according to DSM-5-TR criteria when an individual experiences marked fear or anxiety about at least 2 of the following 5 situations: using public transportation, being in open spaces, being in enclosed spaces, standing in line or being in a crowd, or being outside the home alone. […] Symptoms must persist for at least 6 months to confirm the diagnosis of agoraphobia. […] The DSM-5-TR characterizes the typical course of agoraphobia as „persistent and chronic,” with complete remission being rare without treatment or intervention. […] The likelihood of a favorable prognosis is further diminished when comorbid conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, personality disorders, or substance use disorders are present. […] Agoraphobia should not be diagnosed if the fears stem from underlying medical conditions, and the behavioral modifications are made to avoid the consequences of these conditions, such as the fear of losing consciousness in public due to cardiovascular pathology or the fear of developing diarrhea in someone with inflammatory bowel disease.
  • #2 Agoraphobia Diagnosis | Push Doctor
    https://www.pushdoctor.co.uk/what-we-treat/mental-health/agoraphobia/diagnosis
    How is agoraphobia diagnosed? As agoraphobia shares a lot of symptoms with other mental health issues, such as anxiety, it must be diagnosed very carefully. During your online consultation, our doctors will ask you questions about your symptoms to help them provide the most accurate diagnosis possible. You can have your consultation in your own home, in an environment where you feel comfortable. Your answers are completely confidential and its important to be as honest as possible. This will help our doctors provide the most effective treatment. […] Is there an agoraphobia test? The questions our doctors will ask you are designed to highlight any symptoms that are specific to agoraphobia, as opposed to generalised anxiety disorder or other similar conditions. While the exact questions youre asked may vary, the Panic and Agoraphobia Scale (PAS) is often used to see how likely it is that your symptoms point to agoraphobia. […] What happens when your diagnosis is confirmed? Once the doctor has ruled out other possibilities and analysed the answers youve given to their questions, will be possible to provide a diagnosis. If the signs point to agoraphobia, the doctor will talk you through the treatment options available.
  • #2 Pulsenotes | Agoraphobia
    https://app.pulsenotes.com/specialities/psychiatry/notes/agoraphobia
    Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterised by an excessive fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help might not be readily available. […] We will explore the features of agoraphobia in detail in the diagnosis section below. […] Both DSM-V and ICD-11 can be used as frameworks to aid the clinical diagnosis of agoraphobia. Below the diagnosis of agoraphobia is outlined using DSM-V criteria: Marked fear or anxiety about two or more of the following 5 situations: Using public transportation (e.g. buses, trains, planes), Being in open spaces (e.g. bridges, parking lots), Being in enclosed spaces (e.g. shops, cinema, theatre), Standing in line or being in a crowd, Being outside of the home alone. […] The individual fears these situations because, in the event of developing panic-like symptoms or other embarrassing or incapacitating symptoms (e.g. falls, incontinence), they have thoughts that: Escape might be difficult, OR Help might not be available.
  • #2 Agoraphobia – Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment | RxHealthMed
    https://www.rxhealthmed.ca/condition/agoraphobia/
    In order to be diagnosed with agoraphobia, a person must have fear or anxiety of at least 2 of the following situations: being in a crowd or standing in line, using public transportation, being in open spaces (e.g. marketplaces, parking lots, etc.), being in enclosed spaces such as a theatre, being outside of the home alone. […] In particular, agoraphobia should be distinguished from social phobia (social anxiety disorder), where avoidance is limited to social situations due to fear of embarrassment treatment interventions for social phobia are different from treatments for agoraphobia. […] In addition, its important to be sure that the anxiety isnt being caused by a medication, drug abuse or addiction, or a medical condition. A doctor may refer someone to a psychiatrist or another therapist who specializes in recognizing and treating anxiety disorders, including agoraphobia.
  • #2 Assessment and Diagnosis – The Phobia Solution
    https://phobiasolution.com/agoraphobia-guide/assessment-and-diagnosis
    Social anxiety disorder (also known as social phobia) involves a fear of social situations or scrutiny by others. This can sometimes overlap with agoraphobia, especially when it involves crowded places or public speaking. Key differentiating factors include: Social anxiety primarily revolves around fears related to social interactions and judgment, while agoraphobia is more about the fear of specific places or situations. Social anxiety often leads to avoidance of social events, while agoraphobia involves avoidance of various public spaces or situations. […] Various medical conditions can mimic or exacerbate agoraphobia-like symptoms. These conditions can include cardiovascular issues, thyroid disorders, and neurological conditions. A thorough medical evaluation is essential to rule out underlying medical causes.
  • #2 Agoraphobia in Children and Adolescents – Pediatrics – MSD Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/pediatrics/psychiatric-disorders-in-children-and-adolescents/agoraphobia-in-children-and-adolescents
    Agoraphobia is a persistent fear of being trapped in situations or places without a way to escape easily and without help. Diagnosis is by clinical criteria. […] For agoraphobia to be diagnosed, patients must consistently have unreasonable fear or anxiety about 2 of the following for 6 months: Using public transportation, Being in open spaces, Being in enclosed spaces, Standing in line or being in a crowd, Being outside the home alone. […] Also, the fear must cause patients to avoid the distressing situation to the extent that they have difficulty functioning normally (eg, going to school, visiting the mall, doing other typical activities). […] Agoraphobia must be distinguished from the following: Specific phobias (eg, to a certain situation), Social anxiety disorder, Panic disorder, Depression, which can cause patients to avoid leaving the house for reasons unrelated to anxiety.
  • #2 9412 – Panic disorder and/or agoraphobia | Medical EPSS
    https://mepss.vbatraining.org/Medical%20Issues/Mental/codes/9412.stml
    Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by panic attacks. […] Agoraphobia is anxiety related to being in places or situations, or the avoidance of places or situations in which escape might be difficult, or in which help may not be available. […] Ninety-five percent of individuals with agoraphobia also have a current diagnosis of panic disorder. […] The diagnostic criteria for panic disorder without agoraphobia include: […] Absence of agoraphobia. […] The panic attacks cannot be attributed to other causes, e.g., effects of substances (caffeine, drugs), or a general medical condition (hyperthyroidism). […] The panic attacks are not considered to be due to another mental disorder (social phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder etc.). […] Laboratory findings that assist in the diagnosis of this disorder have not been identified.
  • #2 Agoraphobia in adults: Epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, course, and diagnosis – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/agoraphobia-in-adults-epidemiology-pathogenesis-clinical-manifestations-course-and-diagnosis
    The disorder is treatable with various forms of cognitive behavioral treatment and antidepressant medication. […] The unlinking of panic disorder and agoraphobia reflects the current conceptualization that agoraphobia is a distinct disorder that exists independently of the presence or absence of panic disorder.
  • #2 Panic disorder and agoraphobia | Better Health Channel
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/panic-disorder-and-agoraphobia
    Agoraphobia is fear or anxiety of being in situations where you feel you cannot escape. […] Having early treatment is important for recovery from panic disorder or agoraphobia. […] A diagnosis of panic disorder or agoraphobia will also involve your healthcare professional asking you questions about your symptoms and feelings, so they can understand your problem. […] To fit the criteria for a diagnosis of agoraphobia, you will need to have experienced the symptoms of agoraphobia and some additional signs. […] Your fear or anxiety is almost always experienced when you are in the same situation. […] You avoid the situation that causes your symptoms. […] Your fear and anxiety is out of proportion to the actual situation.
  • #2 Agoraphobia in adults: Epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, course, and diagnosis – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/agoraphobia-in-adults-epidemiology-pathogenesis-clinical-manifestations-course-and-diagnosis/print
    The presence of agoraphobia is associated with significant impairment in functioning, degree of disability, and unemployment. The disorder is treatable with various forms of cognitive behavioral treatment and antidepressant medication. More severe cases of agoraphobia may pose treatment challenges. […] The epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, course, and diagnosis of agoraphobia in adults are reviewed here.
  • #2 Pulsenotes | Agoraphobia
    https://app.pulsenotes.com/specialities/psychiatry/notes/agoraphobia
    The fear or anxiety is: Almost always provoked by the situations, Disproportionate to the actual danger posed by the situation. […] The fear, anxiety, or avoidance behaviours are described as being persistent (i.e. lasting for 6 months) and causing the affected individual significant distress or functional impairment (i.e. social, occupational, or other important aspects of functioning). […] In agoraphobia, panic attacks tend to be predictable and occur in the context of the avoided situation that differs from panic disorder. […] Agoraphobia can be treated with talking therapies, pharmacotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. […] Decisions around treatment will be guided by the severity of the presentation and patient preference. […] For agoraphobia that has a more severe impact on an individual’s functioning, they are likely to benefit from a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
  • #2 Agoraphobia | Psychology Today
    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/conditions/agoraphobia
    The success of treatment usually depends on the severity of the phobia. […] Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help patients modify or eliminate thought patterns contributing to the symptoms and help them change behavior. […] Treatment may be complicated when patients have difficulty getting to appointments because of their fears. […] Patients who experience panic attacks as part of their agoraphobia may benefit from prescription medication to prevent panic attacks or reduce their frequency and severity, and to decrease the associated anticipatory anxiety. […] Some patients with anxiety disorders may benefit from the combination or sequential use of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy treatment modalities.
  • #2 Pulsenotes | Agoraphobia
    https://app.pulsenotes.com/specialities/psychiatry/notes/agoraphobia
    The principal drug class for the treatment of agoraphobia are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). […] An SSRI at maximally tolerated dose should be tried for a minimum of six weeks. […] When monitoring for a clinical response to an SSRI or SNRI, it is important to remember that a therapeutic response will take two or more weeks for an anxiolytic effect.
  • #2 Treating panic disorder and agoraphobia | Open Arms
    https://www.openarms.gov.au/health-professionals/assessment-and-treatment/treating-anxiety/treating-panic-disorder-and-agoraphobia
    In diagnosing panic disorder, it is important to establish that the panic attacks are occurring unexpectedly and, not in the context of another anxiety disorder. […] Psychological interventions are the preferred approach for the treatment of panic and agoraphobia. However, pharmacotherapy may be considered in moderate to severe cases, where psychological treatment is not acceptable or available, or fails to produce a sufficient response. […] Benzodiazepines are no longer recommended for the treatment of panic disorder or agoraphobia.
  • #2 Agoraphobia Test – Free Confidential Results Online | Mind Diagnostics
    https://www.mind-diagnostics.org/agoraphobia-test
    Agoraphobia is a complex anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable. […] A diagnosis of agoraphobia typically involves a comprehensive assessment by a healthcare professional. Key diagnostic criteria include: […] Symptoms persisting for at least six months and causing significant distress or impairment. […] Healthcare providers often perform a detailed medical history and psychological evaluation to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder. […] Agoraphobia can be effectively treated through a combination of evidence-based approaches: […] Early treatment is critical to preventing the progression of agoraphobia. With appropriate care, many individuals experience significant improvements in their symptoms, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives.
  • #3
    https://www.pediatriconcall.com/calculators/panic-disorder-and-agoraphobia-criteria-changes-from-dsm-iv-to-dsm-5
    A marked fear or anxiety about two (or more) of the following five situations: […] The situations are avoided (e.g., travel is restricted) or else are endured with marked distress or with anxiety about having a panic attack or panic-like symptoms, or require the presence of a companion. […] The fear or anxiety is out of proportion to the actual danger posed by the agoraphobic situations and to the sociocultural context. […] The fear, anxiety, or avoidance is persistent, typically lasting 6 months or more. […] The anxiety or phobic avoidance is not better accounted for by another mental disorder. […] The individual fears or avoids these situations because of thoughts that escape might be difficult or help might not be available in the event of developing panic-like symptoms or other incapacitating or embarrassing symptoms. […] The panic attacks are not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g., a drug of abuse or a medication) or a general medical condition.
  • #3 Pulsenotes | Agoraphobia
    https://app.pulsenotes.com/specialities/psychiatry/notes/agoraphobia
    The fear or anxiety is: Almost always provoked by the situations, Disproportionate to the actual danger posed by the situation. […] The fear, anxiety, or avoidance behaviours are described as being persistent (i.e. lasting for 6 months) and causing the affected individual significant distress or functional impairment (i.e. social, occupational, or other important aspects of functioning). […] In agoraphobia, panic attacks tend to be predictable and occur in the context of the avoided situation that differs from panic disorder. […] Agoraphobia can be treated with talking therapies, pharmacotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. […] Decisions around treatment will be guided by the severity of the presentation and patient preference. […] For agoraphobia that has a more severe impact on an individual’s functioning, they are likely to benefit from a combination of psychotherapy and medication.