The Covid-19 pandemic that we all are currently facing has certainly affected every individual in many different ways irrespective of their age, class etc. All of us may be encountering a lot of problems due to the pandemic, such as reduced salaries, increased unemployment, reduced business revenues, increased health risks etc.
However, there are certain group of people who may experience a different level of stress and anxiety due to the current situation. Who are we talking about? Well, I am referring to people with Agoraphobia. Haven’t heard of the name? What is Agoraphobia?
Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder, in which a person has a fear of situations or places where escape is difficult or unlikely possible. They try to avoid such situations or places that might cause panic, helplessness, and embarrassment.
The pandemic has undeniably triggered the stress and anxiety levels in many of us. However, people with an anxiety disorder such as Agoraphobia may find that the pandemic has intensified their anxiety even further.
Through this article, we will be discussing how the pandemic situation has aggravated the predisposition to Agoraphobia, and also discuss a few coping strategies that can be followed during this difficult time.
What are the usual symptoms of Agoraphobia?
Some of the major symptoms are: fear of being out of home for a long period of time, anxious or agitated mood, fear of being alone in a social situation, fear of being in places where escape could be difficult, estranged from others, fear of losing control, etc.
People with Agoraphobia usually cannot differentiate between what they perceive to be a fear vs what is actually a danger. The current situation affects people with this condition differently. For example, one may find that social distancing provides relief, as it helps to reduce the situations that have the potential to trigger fear. While some others may find that social distancing and the amount of uncertainty that this has caused can trigger even more anxiety. Various media news and stories about the pandemic can trigger more fear amongst people experiencing Agoraphobia.
The experience of Agoraphobia is turning to be a nightmare for many due to various reasons.
Firstly, many people with any panic disorder feel comfortable and safer when they know that they have someone around them for emotional support and physical safety. This will help them feel safer and at ease when they are near medical facilities, family and friends. The whole social distancing and lockdown norms have changed all of that. The fact, that they are advised to go to medical centers only during emergency, and call doctors before visiting them live, changes everything for them.These changes might not really have a deep meaning for any of us, but for people with Agoraphobia, these circumstances put them under high levels of stress and worry.
Furthermore, people with panic disorder and Agoraphobia feel that any mention of physical symptoms such as shortness of breath, palpitations etc., provokes unwanted fear, as it reminds them of their panic attacks.
Lastly, the general anxious mood of people and uncertainty about the future is very challenging for people with Agoraphobia. These days, as all the news around us relates to the pandemic and its associated fear and uncertainty, it builds up more stress, anxiety and panic, for people experiencing the disorder.
Coping strategies
As we have seen the causes and symptoms of the disorder, and also how the pandemic is further exacerbating the symptoms, let us look at a few ways how you can help alleviate the predisposition of your body to slip into panic mode during this testing time.
Firstly, try to cut off completely from any news or information related to COVID-19, as this is usually a major triggering point. Ask your friends and family to refrain from sharing any type of discussions or frightening information that can trigger panic.
Secondly, practice various mindfulness techniques such as breathing, relaxation, yoga or prayer, that will help your body to slow down and prevent you from slipping into a high panic mode.
Thirdly, if you feel that you are going to get a panic attack, breathe slowly and gently, in such a way, that you can feel the breath moving in and out.
Next, keep reminding yourself, that your panic attack is a false and momentary alarm, and not due to any potential danger.
Lastly, try joining an online support group, through which you can share your feelings and thoughts and depend for any extended support. It also helps you realize that you are not alone in this struggle and can gain support from your peers.
These are just a few ways that you can use to cope with your symptoms during this challenging time. However, if you feel at any point, that you will not be able to cope, seek professional help from therapists and psychologists. These professionals can help you with the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of your disorder. Always remember, you are not alone!
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