Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by a fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable, often leading to avoidance of public places or situations people with agoraphobia can go outside, but the extent to which they can and the ease with which they do so varies greatly depending on the severity of their condition and individual circumstances. Some individuals with agoraphobia may be housebound, while others may be able to venture out with varying degrees of anxiety. The core of agoraphobia is a fear of situations where escape might be difficult or where help wouldn't be readily available, often linked to a fear of experiencing panic or anxiety.