Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is a fear of and anxiety about being in places or situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable, often leading to avoidance of public spaces. It is a recognized anxiety disorder characterized by intense worry about having a panic attack or embarrassment in crowds, leaving home, or traveling. The term combines Greek roots for 'marketplace' and 'fear' and often co-occurs with other phobias or panic disorders.