An Agorophobic Friend

Agoraphobia can begin in childhood, but usually starts in the late teen or early adult years — usually before age 35 — but older adults can also develop it. Women are diagnosed with agoraphobia more often than men are.

Risk factors for agoraphobia include:

Having panic disorder or other phobias
Responding to panic attacks with excessive fear and avoidance
Experiencing stressful life events, such as abuse, the death of a parent or being attacked
Having an anxious or nervous temperament
Having a blood relative with agoraphobia

Complications

Agoraphobia can greatly limit your life's activities. If your agoraphobia is severe, you may not even be able to leave your home. Without treatment, some people become housebound for years. You may not be able to visit with family and friends, go to school or work, run errands, or take part in other normal daily activities. You may become dependent on others for help.

Agoraphobia can also lead to or be associated with:

Depression
Alcohol or drug abuse
Other mental health disorders, including other anxiety disorders or personality disorders