Natural remedy for agoraphobics to treat underlying agoraphobia causes & agoraphobia symptoms.

People with Agoraphobia develop "safe places" (usually their own home), but it may also include any other frequented areas where they feel psychologically safe and secure. In addition, they often develop "safe people" with whom they feel totally comfortable and can depend on should something happen.

When people suffering from this condition leave these people or places of safety, they often experience Agoraphobia symptoms which include feelings of extreme anxiety or a panic attack. This results in obsessive avoidance behavior (they may only want to shop at a particular shopping mall and will drive to the next suburb to do so) and in extreme cases Agoraphobics live a life of recluse, seldom stepping out their front door.

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Some Agoraphobia facts are that the condition most likely develops in late adolescence or early adulthood and tends to affect more women than men. It is a very limiting and isolating disorder that can begin to take control – adversely affecting daily function. However, Agoraphobia is treatable and it is never too late to reclaim a panic-free life!

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Drug Treatment

While physicians are often quick to prescribed scheduled drugs to control the anxiety associated with Agoraphobia, they often have unwanted side effects, and some may even be addictive. While prescription drugs may be beneficial at temporarily masking symptoms, they do not address the underlying problem and may bring with them new problems such as dependency.

Natural Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies

Agoraphobia is essentially an Anxiety Disorder that involves the flood of anxiety inducing-chemicals through your body (e.g. adrenaline). To help manage the underlying anxiety associated with this condition, there are a number of natural products available. The calmative effects of certain herbs in Agoraphobia treatments such as Passiflora incarnata, Scutellaria laterifolia (Scullcap) and Valerian, can help restore tranquility to your life and help restore your body’s own natural chemical balance.

These remedies also serve to take ‘the edge off’ the discomfort and anxiety associated with facing your fears. Hypericum perforatum (St John’s Wort), taken regularly, can also have a longer term balancing and calming effect – helping to provide a platform of confidence and well being and thereby reducing overall anxiety levels.

Unlike allopathic medication, natural remedies offer great results without unwanted side-effects or risks of addiction. As different products on the market can vary in strength and therapeutic dosage, make sure that you source yours from a reputable manufacturer who also offers support and guidance in how to use the remedies.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Agoraphobia treatments sometimes include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. CBT makes use of various techniques which may help the individual to better understand and manage symptoms as well as the maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that underlie them. Desensitization or exposure therapy is the most common method of treating Agoraphobia.

This therapy includes gradual exposure to the feared situation at a gentle pace. The therapeutic process starts with small manageable goals and progresses in manageable steps. A person with Agoraphobia might begin with stepping outside the front door, and progress to a walk around the block.

Relaxation Techniques

Meditation, deep breathing and muscle relaxation techniques are generally a part of Agoraphobia treatments in order to reduce over-all anxiety. These methods are also great for clearing your mind of unwanted negative thoughts. There are CD’s available that are specifically composed for this purpose.

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Other Agoraphobia facts you should be aware of are that the condition iis related to other disorders such as depression, substance abuse, other phobias and anxiety disorders (particularly Panic Disorder).While the symptoms of Agoraphobia may feel physical, they always begin in the mind. It is therefore recommended that a professional evaluation be sought, so that you can receive a proper diagnosis and treatment for any other co-existing problems.

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• One step at a time! Set small attainable goals and get comfortable with them before moving on to the next step.
• Familiarize yourself with unknown situations before diving into them. For example, if you know you have a function to attend, go and look around the venue beforehand so that it is not altogether unknown.
• Some people find running a particularly useful way of facing their Agoraphobia - as it’s almost impossible to have a panic attack while running. Disguised as a jogger, nobody will notice your anxious breathlessness as unusual. While it may literally seem that you are running away from your fears, you will be doing the exact opposite! An added bonus is that while you jog your body will release happiness producing hormones at the same time, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and relaxation.
• Keep a journal, talk to a "safe person", or find another positive means for expressing your emotions. As with many psychological conditions, Agoraphobia is often entangled in deep emotions, insecurities and thoughts that need to be explored and dealt with.
• Keep reminding yourself of the reality of your situation. While this may be easier said than done, try to focus on the realistic outcomes of your anxiety situation. When catastrophic thoughts are running through your mind try yelling a focus-phrase (out loud or in your head) such as "STOP IT" or "ENOUGH NOW!" that will help to bring you back into the present. Your panic will soon pass and even if you have to push past a few people to get outside, they probably won’t notice. Remember that panic is not physically harmful!
• Empower yourself in other areas in your life. Take up a hobby, sporting activity, or interesting course. The confidence you gain in these areas will spill over into other aspects of your life.
• Become an expert! Learn all there is to know about Agoraphobia. There are multiple self-help books, internet resources and support groups that will help you understand your condition more fully and provide helpful guidance.
• Live a healthy life-style! Eating a well balanced diet, getting enough sleep and relaxation time and regular exercise can help reduce anxiety and stress.

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