Agoraphobia is a common complication of panic disorder. The central feature of agoraphobia is intense fear (panic response) of being in certain situations in which escape is difficult or potentially embarrassing, or where help is not readily available. If you have PD with agoraphobia, activities involving large numbers of people, probably trigger a panic overload. It’s a lot more difficult to “escape” when you’re mixing and mingling in a large crowd.
So, what can you do? Your About.com guide to phobias offers some helpful tips for dealing with a fear of crowds. Following these helpful tips can help you prepare for a crowded event, and that can translate into a more pleasant experience.
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