Since Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Simon Clarke, tweeted about his agoraphobia, it’s left many wondering what it actually is.

Mr Clarke announced, via the social media platform, he will not appear in the pre-Budget photograph alongside Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, as he is agoraphobic, saying his condition "prevents me being comfortable in some open spaces”.

Many people assume agoraphobia is simply a fear of open spaces, but this is an over-simplification and there is often a lot more at play.

The NHS describes agoraphobia as “a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or that help wouldn't be available if things go wrong.”

So for a person living with agoraphobia, they may have a fear of using public transport or going into a busy shopping centre.

This can lead to a person not leaving home alone and shopping online, to avoid the situations which cause anxiety.

How common is agoraphobia?

It is believe every two in 100 people live with a panic disorder and around one third will go on to develop agoraphobia.

The condition is twice as common in women as men.

What are the symptoms of agoraphobia?

When someone living with the condition finds themselves in one of these situations, they can suffer symptoms similar to a panic attack, including:

  • rapid heartbeat
  • rapid breathing
  • feeling hot and sweaty
  • feeling sick

Do you have agoraphobia?

If you are experiencing symptoms of agoraphobia, speak to your GP. You may be asked if you find it stressful to leave the house, if there are certain places or situations you avoid or if you have developed any avoidance strategies to help you cope.

What are treatments for agoraphobia?

Exercise, healthy eating and avoiding stimulants are all recommended to help treat the condition.

During panic attacks, mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing and focussing on something non-threatening or calming can help bring symptoms under control.

Psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may also prove beneficial.

If these approaches aren't successful, medication can be prescribed.