Treatment options for agoraphobia depend on the specific symptoms a person experiences and the severity of their impact. Simple approaches to treatment include exercise, relaxation techniques, improved sleep hygiene, identifying and eliminating stressors, and spending time with natural support groups (family and friends). All of these can alleviate symptoms and improve a person's quality of life. Most patients will benefit from a component of psychological therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy.

Generally, antidepressants are more effective in treating agoraphobia than anti-anxiety medications. However, there are some adverse side effects that affected individuals should be aware of before starting this treatment.

For example, some antidepressant medications have been associated with a range of adverse side effects, some of which are listed below:

Nausea
Weight gain
Fatigue
Dizziness, nervousness
Anxiety
Reduced sexual drive in adults

As an alternative to medication, cognitive behavioral therapy has been shown to be effective for some individuals suffering from agoraphobia. Through cognitive behavioral therapy, individuals affected by agoraphobia can learn to develop crucial skills that help them better manage and cope with anxiety-related symptoms.

Exposure therapy, where individuals are repeatedly exposed to their greatest fears, can eventually desensitize them to these situations, allowing them to confront them with more confidence. Exposure therapy is a popular therapy for patients with agoraphobia. In exposure therapy, the individual gradually confronts their fears. For example, a person who fears leaving their home alone might start by stepping outside their home or walking around their house.

Treatment can be complicated by patients’ difficulty attending appointments due to their fears. Therefore, some therapists may visit an agoraphobic patient’s home for initial sessions.