Agoraphobia & Fear of Open Spaces (Episode 134)

Nov 28, 2025

Explore the complexities of agoraphobia and its connection to panic disorders. Discover how fear of losing control shapes behaviors, as many live their lives around safe zones. The hosts share insights on exposure therapy and debunk myths about distance and anxiety. Personal stories reveal the courage it takes to face fears, from attending crowded festivals to flying under duress. Learn why open spaces can trigger panic and how hypervigilance influences perception. Practical strategies for meditation and reassurance against anxiety are also discussed.

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INSIGHT

Safe Zone Defines Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is primarily the fear of losing control outside a designated safe zone.
Joshua Fletcher says people plan life around safe zones and use escape pods like cars to feel secure.

INSIGHT

People Can Be Part Of Your Safety

Safe people can expand what counts as a safe zone.
Drew Linsalata notes people often attend events only if specific others go with them.

INSIGHT

Panic-to-Avoidance Progression

Agoraphobia commonly develops after repeated panic attacks and avoidance.
Drew Linsalata explains panic, repeated avoidance, then agoraphobia is the usual progression.

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Agoraphobia. Is it fear of open spaces? Do people with agoraphobia always fear open spaces? What even is agoraphobia and how to I overcome it?

This week we're looking at the complexities of agoraphobia, exploring its definitions, connections to panic disorder, and the fear of open spaces. We're sharing some personal experiences and insights on how navigate through these challenges, emphasizing the importance of exposure therapy (what a surprise) and understanding that specific triggers mostly don't matter.

We also include a few great did-it-anyways, including flying with an anxiety disorder, a primary fear for many struggling with agoraphobia.

Takeaways

Agoraphobia is the fear of losing control outside of a safe zone.
Many agoraphobics plan their lives around safe zones.
Distance does not equate to increased anxiety; it's about perception.
For some, wide open spaces can trigger feelings of anxiety and fear
Hypervigilance makes it difficult to cope in unfamiliar environments.
Exposure therapy is essential for overcoming agoraphobia.
Specific triggers (like open spaces) are largely irrelevant in the recovery equation.
Anxiety can distort perceptions of safety and control.

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