What is agoraphobia? Agoraphobia is translated as “fear of the marketplace.” It was traditionally thought to involve a fear of public places and open spaces. However, it is now believed that agoraphobia develops as a complication of panic attacks. If you have Agoraphobia Panic Attacks, you are afraid of having a panic attack in a situation where escape would be difficult or embarrassing. You are also afraid of having a panic attack where you wouldn’t be able to get help. Because of these fears, you may begin to avoid crowded places such as shopping malls or sports arenas. You may also avoid cars, airplanes, subways, and other forms of travel. In more severe cases, you might only feel safe at home.