Health Issues
Psychological Disorders
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Agoraphobia
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The
UCounsel Resource Directory
is a searchable database of health and mental health organizations
throughout North America. The directory contains listings of
counseling agencies, community mental health agencies, community
health centers, general and psychiatric hospitals, and other such
resources. You will be able to search the directory using our search
tools. The Resource Directory is subject to ongoing revision and
management to ensure that its records are kept up-to-date. New
resources will also be added on a continual basis.
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Agoraphobia is classed as an Anxiety Disorder in the DSM-IV. It is
an overwhelming fear of being in places or situations where escape
might be difficult or embarrassing or where assistance may not be
forthcoming in the event of the onset of acute anxiety or panic
symptoms.
Agoraphobics are typically extremely anxious about losing control,
"going crazy," or suffering physical symptoms that are often taken
to be indicative of their impending demise. Although there may be
no rational basis to their fears, they may nevertheless have a
profound effect on behavior such that an individual may restrict
travel, especially on public transportation; avoid confined places,
including tunnels, bridges, restaurants, and movie theaters; or avoid
straying from home or places where help may be unavailable. In many
cases, the agoraphobic individual will need a trusted friend or
family member to accompany them away from home.
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