Panic Disorder

[Guest]

I would like to help my 60 year old Aunt who has developed some kind of disorder or phobia.
In the last 15 years she has only left her house on 3 separate occasions, the funerals of her sister, father and brother.
Her family have tried to pressure her into getting out and about but she digs her toes in or makes an excuse, and they understandably back off.

A relative of a friend seems to have got over a similar condition when she was put on some kind of medication, but how, if appropriate, does my Aunt get to that stage?

[Guest]

Your aunt might suffer from agorophobic symptoms. These symptoms are indeed responsive to medication and therapy. It is hard to know how to lead one to treatment. Two ways come to mind. First education. She can read about agoraphobia using printed material such as is available at our website. Maybe, she will then understand that help is available. Secondly, there may be a mental health outreach service where you live that comes to the house. I would contact the psychiatric crises service in your area (the local Emergency Room may direct you on how to contact them) and see if such an organization is available. I have personally treated many such patients who are eternally grateful once they begin to live more normal lives. I am sure that there are many people like your aunt who never get to my office who could also benefit. Good luck.
[quote]I would like to help my 60 year old Aunt who has developed some kind of disorder or phobia.
In the last 15 years she has only left her house on 3 separate occasions, the funerals of her sister, father and brother.
Her family have tried to pressure her into getting out and about but she digs her toes in or makes an excuse, and they understandably back off.

A relative of a friend seems to have got over a similar condition when she was put on some kind of medication, but how, if appropriate, does my Aunt get to that stage?[/quote]