What is Fear of Open Spaces?
The fear of open spaces (also referred to as agoraphobia) is defined as a form of anxiety disorder that causes an abnormal fear of open spaces, crowded public places or leaving a safe location. The person experiencing the fear is usually not afraid of open spaces or people but fears being in an embarrassing situation where he or she may not be able to escape from the situation. This disorder develops initially after the sufferer experiences a panic attack, usually in a public place, and afterwards the attacks may occur without warning. As a result of the randomness of these attacks, the sufferer expects future panic attacks to occur and fears situations where attacks may occur. The fear of open spaces is a very distressing condition, and may impact negatively on daily living, social situations, work and relationships. People with this condition rarely venture out in public and may often need to be accompanied. If left untreated, the fear of open spaces can lead to serious health proble
