Sometimes, different conditions may overlap due to similarities that just can’t be ignored. Take, for example, Agoraphobia and Social Anxiety - are they connected in any way at all?Agoraphobia and Social Anxiety are often described as two different conditions, but many people are under the impression that they are the same thing. So, to clear up any confusion, I’m going to go over the details of both conditions so that you can better understand what makes them different and how to treat them.Here is everything you need to know about Agoraphobia and Social Anxiety:

What is Agoraphobia?

Agoraphobia is a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult, or that help wouldn't be available if things go wrong. For some people, this may be on a plane or train. For others, it could be in large crowds or when leaving home alone. Some people with Agoraphobia experience this fear within multiple settings too, so it is not limited to one location.There are physical, cognitive and behavioural symptoms. Physical symptoms include rapid heartbeat, hyperventilation, feeling hot, sweaty and sick. Cognitive symptoms include fear that you're losing your sanity, fear that you may lose control in public, fear that people may stare at you or similar types of fears. Behavioural symptoms include avoiding situations that lead to panic attacks.

What is Social Anxiety?

Social Anxiety is a long-term and overwhelming fear of social situations. These social situations may include parties, going to school or work, dating, or starting conversations. Fear and avoidance are two emotions that you may feel in a social situation. If this is the case, then it’s best to talk to a mental health professional such as a psychotherapist or counsellor.There are physical symptoms but also psychological symptoms too. Physical symptoms include blushing, nausea, excessive sweating, trembling or shaking. Psychological symptoms include worrying about social situations, worrying for days or weeks before an event, or worrying about embarrassing yourself in a social situation. Although it can be normal to feel some anxiety, people with Social Anxiety worry constantly.

What are the differences?

First of all, it’s important to note that those with Agoraphobia fear having anxiety attacks or losing control, while those with Social Anxiety focus more on the fear of being judged in a social situation. The two may seem similar, but the type of avoidance is actually rather different.A person with Agoraphobia may fear the feeling of being closed in, while a person with Social Anxiety may fear people in general. Someone with Social Anxiety would want to avoid being judged, while someone with Agoraphobia would want to avoid a public meltdown.The fears are different, the things they avoid are different, the triggers are different, and the way they heal is different.

What are the similarities?

For many people out there, Agoraphobia and Social Anxiety can overlap with one another - also known as comorbidities which is where you have more than one condition. Although you could tell the differences between the two conditions, it may be possible that you simply have both. If so, the symptoms may all apply to you. Panic attacks could be the one exception, however, since a panic attack can occur for both Agoraphobia and Social Anxiety sufferers. There’s a shared association, and those experiencing panic may develop Agoraphobia or perhaps Social Anxiety as a result, although this isn’t necessarily definitive.

How can therapy help with your Agoraphobia/Social Anxiety?

Therapy is designed to help you overcome your fears. Although there are plenty of helpful methods that are already available to you, therapy is by far the most in-depth and extensive approach that you can opt for. During your sessions, you will be able to talk to your therapist about anything that’s currently on your mind - something that is usually incredibly reassuring and healing. Not only that, but your therapist can get a detailed view of your Agoraphobia/Social Anxiety and offer specific ways to respond to these, which can be discussed during sessions and applied when needed in real-life situations. This is the best possible way to learn how to live differently. Having someone there to talk to about all your fears and feelings, without judgement, is invaluable, to say the very least!

Who to turn to for therapy in Warrington, Cheshire.

Therapy can be a daunting prospect, but it’s incredibly powerful and effective nonetheless. Visit my website today in order to learn more about my Zoom and in-person appointments. For anyone experiencing issues relating to mental health, confidential therapy could be exactly what you need to improve your life for the better. No one should ever go it alone.Get in touch to book an initial consultation with me today!