The goal of treatment is to help you function better. The success of treatment usually depends in part how severe the agoraphobia is. The standard treatment approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps you understand and change the thoughts that are causing your condition, and an antidepressant medication. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Paxil, are usually the first choice of antidepressant. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as venlafaxine (Effexor), are another choice. Other antidepressants and some anti-seizure drugs may be used for severe cases. Other antianxiety medications may also be prescribed. The health care provider may recommend benzodiazepines when antidepressants don't help. Behavioral therapies that may be used together with drug therapy include: Cognitive behavioral therapy; Pleasant mental imagery; Relaxation techniques. Other counseling and therapy techniques may help you gain an understanding of the illness and the factors that protect against or trigger it. A healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, enough rest, and good nutrition can also help reduce the impact of anxiety.
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