Many people who have agoraphobia are afraid to leave their house because they have an overwhelming, intense fear that they cannot escape from certain places. As a result, people with this condition may even avoid normal, everyday activities, such as driving or going to the grocery store. Basically, these people avoid any situation in which they would feel helpless if a panic attack were to occur. Treatment for agoraphobia typically involves a specific form of short-term psychotherapy, in which these people slowly become more comfortable with situations that frighten them.