Do I Have Agoraphobia?

Do you feel anxious about at least two of the following (or similar) situations? 1. Using public transportation (including ships and planes). 2. Being in open spaces (e.g., parking lots, bridges). 3. Being in enclosed places (e.g., shops, theaters). 4. Standing in line or being in a crowd. 5. Being outside alone.

Are you afraid of or avoiding these situations because you think that escaping might be hard or help will not be available when you are panicking or showing other embarrassing symptoms?

Do you mostly feel scared or anxious when experiencing the agoraphobic situations?

Do you feel intensively scared or anxious, actively try to avoid or feel the need of a companion in agoraphobic situations?

Is the fear or anxiety you feel out of proportion to the actual danger caused by the agoraphobic situations and to the sociocultural context?

Does the fear, anxiety or avoidance lasts for 6 months or more?

Does the fear, anxiety or avoidance make you feel upset and cause serious problems in social, occupational or other relevant areas of your daily life?

In case you are suffering from another medical condition (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease) is the fear, anxiety or avoidance clearly excessive?

Are you sure that the fear, anxiety or avoidance is not better explained by the symptoms of another mental disorder (e.g., obsessive-compulsive disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder)?

In order to qualify for a diagnosis of agoraphobia you must become anxious in most, if not all agoraphobic situations. If your symptoms make you feel uncomfortable in daily activities, it may be important to visit your doctor. Deep breathing and visualization are self-help techniques that may help to alleviate some of your symptoms.

Based on your answers, you may not have agoraphobia, but you display some of the symptoms. If your symptoms have a negative impact on your daily life and you avoid certain situations because of agoraphobia, we advise you to see your doctor. Exercising, avoiding caffeine and nicotine and mindfulness can help reduce stress and consequently alleviate some of your symptoms.

Based on your answers, there is a strong chance you will be diagnosed with agoraphobia. It is important to discuss this with your doctor as soon as possible. Cognitive behavioral therapy or medication may be required.