Any one else out there an Agoraphobic???

Agoraphobia is the fear of having a panic attack in a setting from which there is no easy means of escape. As a result, sufferers of agoraphobia may avoid public and/or unfamiliar places. In severe cases, the sufferer may become confined to his or her home, experiencing difficulty traveling from this "safe place." Agoraphobia is a condition where the sufferer becomes anxious in environments that are unfamiliar or where he or she perceives that they have little control. Triggers for this anxiety may include wide open spaces, crowds, or traveling (even short distances). This anxiety is often compounded by a fear of social embarrassment, as the agoraphobic fears the onset of a panic attack and appearing distraught in public. The causes of agoraphobia are currently unknown. It is linked however to the presence of other anxiety disorders, a stressful environment or substance abuse. More women than men are affected. Research has uncovered a linkage between agoraphobia and difficulties with spatial orientation. Normal individuals are able to maintain balance by combining information from their vestibular system, their visual system and their proprioceptive sense. A disproportionate number of agoraphobics have weak vestibular function and consequently rely more on visual or tactile signals. They may become disoriented when visual cues are sparse as in wide open spaces or overwhelming as in crowds. Likewise, they may be confused by sloping or irregular surfaces. Compared to controls, in virtual reality studies, agoraphobics on average show impaired processing of changing audiovisual data. My agoraphobia resulted from an attack (I was raped) 2 years ago. I was already suffering from panic attacks and fear from being molested when I was a child by my uncle, and then when I was raped 2 years ago that sent me over the edge. I have sever panic attacks if I try to leave home, I even have panic attacks at just the thought of having to leave my home. I had my husband install extra locks on all doors and windows, and install a security system. I have a great fear of people because I do not trust them because they have betrayed me many times. I am in counseling, online support groups, and I have been hospitalized 3 times. I am fighting this and trying to learn to trust myself over come my fears and regain my life back. Luckily my husband is a Psychologist and he totally understands my situation and is 100% supportive of me and patient with me. I hope this information helps you to understand a little bit more about being an Agroaphobic.

Excellent explanation, I think more people should know about this disease. What horrible experiences to have to endure though.... :-(

Thanks for the long good xplanation..=)

Thank you so much for your comment and prayers. I would like to add you as friend if that is ok with you. Once again thank you.