Agoraphobia
Untreated, agoraphobia typically runs a chronic course.
Treatment seems to be most effective if instituted early in the development of the disorder, when the person is encouraged to return to the situation, which provokes the symptoms. Although people may continue to experience some mild anxiety, they are able to function normally again with treatment e.g. go shopping alone. Relapse is common but people should be offered further treatment if this occurs. People however with established symptoms lasting over one year have a poorer prognosis. These who have the condition over 5 years are likely to have life long problems, even with prolonged treatment.
20% of patients with agoraphobia eventually achieve spontaneous remission.
90% of patients with agoraphobia will experience significant improvement with treatment.
| Impairment | Date of Onset | Award Period |
|---|---|---|
Customers under 50 years of age-: Agoraphobia |
Less than 5 years |
2 year award |
More than 5 years |
5 year award |
|
Customers over 50 years of age-: Agoraphobia |
Less than 5 years |
2 year award |
More than 5 years |
Indefinite award |
|
Customers under 50 years of age-: Other anxiety disorder / type not known |
Less than 5 years |
2 year award |
More than 5 years |
5 year award |
|
Customers over 50 years of age-: Other anxiety disorder / type not known |
Less than 5 years |
2 year award |
More than 5 years |
Indefinite award |
All information must be taken into account when considering the duration of disabling effects and the duration of disabling effects must be based on the particular circumstances of the individual claimant.
Amended May 2009
