Agoraphobia Therapy Bristol
Panic
It can be a very disturbing experience to have a panic attack. A panic attack involves an intense and often unexpected episode of physical symptoms, that can include breathlessness, sweating, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, chest pain, dry mouth and feeling that you need to go to the toilet. Often people who experience these attacks might fear a particular outcome, such as they will faint, be sick or have a heart attack. Often these problems can lead to avoidance of certain situations and activities. For example, someone who fears their symptoms may lead to a heart attack might avoid physical activity and exercise.
Agoraphobia
Panic attacks are often linked to agoraphobia, a fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable. For individuals seeking agoraphobia treatment in Bristol, this condition typically develops as a response to panic attacks. The fear of experiencing another panic attack can become so overwhelming that individuals start avoiding situations they believe might trigger one. Commonly avoided places include wide open spaces, supermarkets, crowded areas, and public transport. In severe cases, the fear can escalate to the point where leaving the home feels impossible, leading to isolation and difficulty maintaining work or social connections.
Common symptoms of panic
Rapid heart beat ​
Sweating
Difficulties breathing (Hyperventilating)​​​
Feeling faint
Common symptoms of agoraphobia
Avoidance of certain situations and/or activities including (but not limited to), shopping centers, public transport, parks, and public spaces.
Distress and/or anxiety symptoms when leaving the home may lead to isolation.
Having to enlist other people to help with day-to-day living tasks, for example, shopping.
Treatment for panic and agoraphobia
Research and clinical trials strongly support Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as an effective approach for the treatment of panic attacks, with or without agoraphobia. For individuals seeking agoraphobia treatment in Bristol, CBT focuses on identifying the beliefs and behaviours that sustain panic attacks and teaching techniques to challenge and manage these symptoms.
For most people, a course of twelve to sixteen therapy hours is sufficient to achieve significant progress. However, some may require additional sessions or an adapted approach. This is particularly true for individuals who are unable to leave their homes, in which case home-based therapy can be an essential part of the treatment plan.
At NOSA, we take the time to fully assess your individual needs and work collaboratively with you to recommend a treatment package tailored to your goals.
Our panic & agoraphobia treatment in Bristol
How does it work?
1
Make Contact
Reach out via phone, email, or our website to discuss your concerns. We’ll gather some initial details about your panic attacks or agoraphobia and how they affect your daily life.
2
Initial Consultation
Meet with a therapist to explore your specific challenges and goals. This session helps us understand your unique needs and how to support you.
3
Treatment Recommendations
After the consultation, you’ll receive a personalised letter outlining the most suitable treatment plan for your situation.
4
Your Decision
Take time to review the recommendations and decide whether to proceed with the proposed treatment plan at a pace that feels comfortable for you.