Agoraphobia

 

With agoraphobia the sufferer fears certain situations that they believe may trigger off a panic attack or anxiety episode. What the person fears is really the feeling of fear that a person feels whenever the thought about a situation comes into mind. If a person has an episode in which a panic attack or something similar occurs in a given situation this can become locked in the memory bank. This memory then serves as a constant reminder of the event and then an association with the place where the event took place becomes the focus.

Agoraphobia is often thought of as merely a fear of open spaces but this is certainly not the only form it shows up in. It has many forms and for many, they happen at home, in places of worship, or in crowded supermarkets, places that are certainly not "open". In fact, agoraphobia is a condition, which develops when a person begins to avoid spaces or situations associated with anxiety. Typical "phobic situations" might include driving, shopping, crowded places, traveling, standing in line, being alone, meetings and social gatherings.

Symptoms of this condition are as follows:

·        Hot flushes

·        Palpitations

·        Sweating

·        Inability to breath

·        Nausea

·        Anxiety feelings

·        Intense worry

Hypnotherapy is particularly effective in combating agoraphobia as in the relaxed state of hypnosis; changes to a person’s perception can be made for the benefit of the client. If you would like to try Hypnosis for yourself you can check out my free self-hypnosis routine on the Hypnotherapy F.A.Q on this site. Self hypnosis takes a little time to master but it is quite easily achieved with a bit of patience!

If you have or are suffering from agoraphobic panic attacks do not despair there is help.  On a personal level if it is convenient you can also come to see me personally.  These panic attacks are usually tricky and require a minimum of three sessions for successful resolution with further reinforcing of the therapy on the clients part.  If seeing me personally is not possible or if money is an issue a full and detailed recovery plan is given in the principles of life book where the thought re-training technique is explained as well as some more mental relaxation exercises to bring about more emotional peace.

Contained inside the book are the strategies for overcoming agoraphobia and learning to neutralize the real cause.  Do not be put off by the simplicity of reading a book to help you as many people have found it very effective for them with a cessation of anxiety after using the many exercises contained.  Check out the book forward & introduction in this site for how it works.

I am a firm believer in the power of music in its ability to help in the reduction of anxiety.  I have found that certain types of music have a definite effect on our mood and our emotions.  Over the years I have tried and tested many audio CD’s.  Listed HERE are the ones I have found the most beneficial to myself and my clients in helping to reduce anxiety and panic attacks.