While agoraphobia and social anxiety share some similarities, they are distinct anxiety conditions with different triggers, symptoms, and treatment approaches.
Agoraphobia and social anxiety (previously known as
However, it’s possible to have both, and some symptoms may overlap.
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder involving an intense fear of situations where you may feel exposed a
This fear often leads to avoidance behaviors, where you steer clear of places or situations that you believe are unsafe.
You may avoid crowds, public transport, or being alone outside.
Agoraphobia affects 2% of the population and affects women more often than men.
Social anxiety
Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is a common anxiety disorder involving an intense fear of social situations, where you fear being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated.
This fear often means you avoid social gatherings and activities. You may find it hard to speak to strangers or speak in public. If you do put yourself in these situations, you may feel
| Agoraphobia | Social anxiety disorder | |
| Focus of fear | Fear of places or situations where you feel you may not be able to leave easily. You might also worry about having a health incident in these situations and help not being available. | Fear is centered around social situations and the possibility of being |
| Avoidance behaviors | You avoid specific places or situations perceived as unsafe. | You avoid social interactions, such as talking to someone you don’t know, or situations you feel you could be judged, such as eating in public. |
| Physical symptoms | You may experience panic attacks, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty breathing. | Physical symptoms often include blushing, sweating, trembling, and nausea. |
| Impact on daily life | It may severely affect your daily life, leading to isolation and dependence on others. | It can make it hard to form relationships, go to work or school, or take part in social activities, leading to loneliness and low self-esteem. |
Agoraphobia
People with agoraphobia may fear and avoid:
- crowded places, such as shopping malls and concerts
- open spaces, such as parks
- enclosed spaces, such as elevators and public transport
- situations where you feel trapped (e.g., being alone outside the home or traveling far from home)
Social anxiety
People with social anxiety disorder may fear and avoid:
- public speaking or presentations
- speaking on the phone
- meeting new people
- attending social gatherings
- eating or drinking in public
- performing in front of others
- being the center of attention
Agoraphobia
The symptoms of agoraphobia can include:
- panic attacks (rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling)
- fear of being outside of the home alone
- avoidance of certain places or situations
- feelings of helplessness
- physical symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and difficulty breathing
Social anxiety
The symptoms of social anxiety disorder can include:
- intense fear of social situations and avoidance of social interactions
- excessive worry about being judged or embarrassed
- feeling your “
mind going blank ” when speaking with others - physical symptoms such as blushing, sweating, trembling, and nausea
- difficulty speaking or making eye contact
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia can severely restrict an individual’s ability to function in daily life. They may avoid social activities, work, and even necessary errands, leading to isolation and dependence on others.
A person may stick with “safe” people, only do things if this person accompanies them, or only visit “safe” places. In
Social anxiety
Social anxiety disorder can interfere with an individual’s ability to form relationships, perform at work or school, and participate in social activities. It can lead to feelings of loneliness and low self-esteem.
Social anxiety usually starts in the teens or early adulthood and can last a long time if untreated.
Both conditions are treatable with therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and sometimes medication.
Getting help early can improve the quality of your life significantly.
Agoraphobia
Treatment for agoraphobia typically includes:
- cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): helps you identify and challenge irrational fears and develop coping strategies.
- exposure therapy: gradual exposure to feared situations to reduce anxiety over time.
- medications: antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms.
- support groups: Support groups can help you connect with others going through the same experience.
- lifestyle changes: changes such as exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol, drugs, and caffeine may help symptoms.
Social anxiety
Treatment for social anxiety disorder typically includes:
- cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): helps individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts and develop coping strategies.
- exposure therapy: slowly exposing yourself to feared social situations can help to reduce anxiety each time.
- medications: antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications may help support you alongside therapy.
- social skills training: can help you develop confidence in social interactions.
- support groups: Participation in support groups can provide encouragement and reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation.
- lifestyle changes:
While agoraphobia and social anxiety disorder can share some similarities, they are distinct conditions with different triggers, symptoms, and treatment approaches.
If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of one or both of these anxiety conditions, don’t be afraid to seek help.
Anxiety conditions are common, and your doctor can offer support and treatment to help you live your life to the full.