Overstimulation requiring treatment? Agoraphobia?

Question

am able to function in most social situations - talking to people, even giving speeches, no problem.  But if I'm placed in a situation with a lot going on - a concert, for example, with very loud music, people jostling and yelling, bright lights, and confusion - I get overwhelmed.  I feel the need to leave.  

My feeling is that this just means I'm better in quieter situations - plays, smaller concerts with not as loud music, movie theaters, etc.  My fiancee, who dabbles in psychology, feels that it's agoraphobia without panic disorder (though I have had a panic attack in the past) and requires treatment with an SSRI.  I'd prefer not to be on an SSRI.

Any advice?  Is this normal, or agoraphobia?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

check this link http://www.healthyplace.com/Communities/Anxiety/Site/transcripts/agoraphobia.htm

? · Answer

I suffered with that phobia many years ago. I got into therapy & found out why I had the phobia. That made it all much easier to understand. My family doctor put me on a low dose of an antidepressant, which got rid of my anxities, which made day to day living more bearable. My agoraphobia stemmed from having to deal with so much stress(family crap, new state, no neighbors, etc) in my life & I felt safe inside my home, where I didn't have to deal with anymore outside stress, so I became a prisoner in my own home. In therapy, I learned to go outside each day into the yard, & in time, I was once again able to go shopping, etc. Get into therapy & see about being put on a med that will help you through each day. I no longer have that phobia, but I'm still claustrophobic, which surfaced when the agoraphobia did. My claustrophobia was a result of something that happened in my early childhood. I just avoid situations that may heighten the claustrophobia. All the best to you, & be patient, as you will be cured, just give it time. :)

Overstimulation requiring treatment? Agoraphobia?

2 Answers