There are several treatment procedures that a doctor can suggest depending on the symptoms one experiences. These include:
1. Therapy
You can benefit from the following types of therapy:
Psychotherapy or talk therapy requires individuals to regularly meet therapists or mental health professionals. It allows them to discuss issues and fears that may have caused the phobia. Moreover, in addition to psychotherapy, doctors often suggest medications for optimum effect.
It is generally a short-term process of treatment that you can discontinue once you are able to cope with your fear.
Exposure therapy is another treatment doctors suggest to overcome your fear. Here you gently expose yourself to a situation or place of fear. As a result of continuous exposure, the fear factor gradually begins to diminish with time.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, is a common psychotherapy procedure people with agoraphobia undergo. This treatment method helps one to understand better the distorted view-points or feelings associated with the phobia. In addition, it also teaches one to replace unpleasant situations or negative thoughts with healthy and positive ones.
As a result, one can regain control of life.
2. Medications
Few medications help to cope with the symptoms of agoraphobia or panic attacks. A few such medications are discussed:
3. Lifestyle Changes
Doctors also suggest a few lifestyle changes. Remember, it will not cure the disorder, but it will significantly help reduce the symptoms and anxiety associated with the disorder. The positive habits involved are:
- Adopting a healthy diet consisting of vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein will make you feel healthier and better overall.
- Practising deep-breathing exercises and daily meditation will reduce the feeling of stress or anxiety. In addition, it also prevents instances of panic attacks.