In continuation of my earlier post dealing with agoraphobia, we now turn to the demographics and possible causes.
Demographics:
The DSM 5 reports that in two-thirds of cases, initial onset occurs before 35 years of age.
Complete remission is exceedingly rare and the DSM reports that complete remission occurs in only 10% of cases.
Causes:
Generally, the causes of agoraphobia follow from a few categories. Environmental considerations may include negative childhood experiences such as death of a parent. Other stressful events may also lead to the behaviours associated with agoraphobia. These events may include assault or mugging.
The DSM states that agoraphobia is at least 61% heritable.
Generally there is a high-level comorbidity such as generalised anxiety disorders and depression.
Questions:
What interventions do you think would help those suffering with agoraphobia?
Have you known someone with agoraphobia and if so how have they adapted?