Summertime is right around the corner and with that are the Naperville Festivals and activities – Parades, Farmer’s Markets, Fine Art Fairs and Summer Concert Series – to name a few.  A great way to spend the summer, unless you suffer from fear of crowds, also known as demophobia or agoraphobia.

Fear of crowds is an anxiety disorder that is more common in women than men.  People who experience fear of crowds will go to great lengths to avoid attending public events and at times go on to eventually be unable to leave home due to experiencing anxiety attacks.  Symptoms of an anxiety attack include:

• dry mouth
• shortness of breath
• feeling of nausea
• shaking and sweating
• heart pounding

Fortunately, fear of crowds can be overcome with behavior therapy or hypnotherapy.  With therapy and starting slowly, socializing with smaller groups of people and bringing someone with you that will help to put you at ease, you will find yourself getting out and enjoying the summer activities without fear.  Dr Rebeck can help you overcome this fear and other phobias.