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Agoraphobia

Also check Anxiety Disorder and Panic Disorder

A phobia is a persistent and irrational fear of a specific object, activity or situation that results in avoidance of what is feared.  Even though the person recognizes the fear as extreme and irrational, he/she is unable to overcome it.

Agoraphobia is the fear of being alone or in public places... eg: closed spaces like elevators or small rooms; or crowded places like shopping malls, restaurants, etc.

Social Phobia is the fear of embarrassment or humiliation in situations in which one has to interact with others... eg: fear of speaking in public.

Signs & Symptoms:

• Anxiety about being in places or situations from which escape might be difficult or embarrassing.
• Panic
• Avoiding such situations or places.
• Distress
• Impairment of normal functioning

Adapted from:

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.  Vol. IV  American Psychiatric        Association.  1994

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