Agoraphobia

Definition: Literally, "fear of the marketplace". Agoraphobia is an often paralyzing fear of being in any public place in which people feel it will be difficult to escape from or receive the help in case they have a panic attack. Persons with agoraphobia almost always have panic attacks that preceded and contributed to their agoraphobia. In severe cases, persons with agoraphobia are unable to leave their homes without the aid of a 'safe' person.