Why Do I Have An Intense Fear of Open Or Crowded Places?

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?

Based on your answers, you may be displaying one or two signs related to an intense fear of open or crowded places. Agoraphobia is a condition in which someone fears and avoids places or situations that might make the person feel trapped or embarrassed. Situations may include being in open or enclosed spaces, being in a crowd, or using public transportation. The severity of agoraphobia can vary between individuals. Some may unable to leave the house, whereas others may be able to travel short distances without problems. If your symptoms make you feel uncomfortable in daily activities, it may be important to visit your doctor. In case you answered ‘no’ to all questions, there may be no need to worry.

We are speaking of agoraphobia in case you have answered ‘Yes’ to all questions above. You have not answered ‘Yes’ to all questions, but on a substantial part of them. Agoraphobia is a condition in which someone fears and avoids places or situations that might make the person feel trapped or embarrassed, including open or enclosed spaces, a crowd, or public transportation. If your symptoms have a negative impact on your daily life and you avoid certain situations because of anxiety, 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.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have agoraphobia. It is important to discuss this with your doctor. Agoraphobia is a condition in which someone fears and avoids places or situations that might make the person feel trapped or embarrassed (e.g., open/enclosed spaces, being in a crowd, using public transportation). Symptoms can also be related to other disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder, body dysmorphic disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy may be required or medication to treat your symptoms. Deep breathing and visualization are self-help techniques that may help to alleviate some of your symptoms.