Phobias

What is a phobia?

A phobia is much more than just being scared of something. It's an overwhelming fear that feels out of control and can take over your life. While most people might feel nervous about spiders or heights, someone with a phobia feels intense panic that can make them organise their whole life around avoiding what scares them.

What does it feel like?

When someone with a phobia faces their fear (or even thinks about it), they might experience:

• Feeling dizzy or unsteady
• Feeling sick
• Sweating
• Heart beating very fast
• Struggling to breathe properly
• Shaking or trembling
• Stomach problems

These feelings can be so strong that just thinking about the feared thing can trigger them. This is called worry before it happens.

Types of phobias

Simple phobias focus on one specific thing and often start in childhood. Common examples include:

• Fear of animals (dogs, spiders, snakes)
• Fear of situations (flying, visiting the dentist)
• Fear of the environment (heights, deep water)
• Fear of body-related things (blood, injections)

Complex phobias are more complicated and usually develop in adults:

• Fear of open spaces and crowds - This isn't just about open spaces. People worry about being somewhere they can't escape from easily if they have a panic attack
• Social fear - Intense worry about embarrassing yourself in front of others, which can make everyday activities like eating out or meeting friends very difficult

What causes phobias?

There's usually no single reason why phobias develop. They might be linked to:

• A scary experience in the past
• Learning the fear from family members when young
• Being naturally more anxious than others (this can run in families)

Getting help

Many people with phobias know exactly what the problem is and try to manage by avoiding their fear. However, this often makes things worse over time.

When to speak to your GP:

• Your phobia is affecting your daily life
• You're avoiding places, people, or activities because of your fear
• The worry is getting worse
• You're having panic attacks

Your GP can refer you to a specialist or you can contact NHS talking therapies directly without a referral.

Treatment options

For simple phobias: Gradual exposure therapy works well. This means slowly getting used to the thing you fear in a safe, controlled way with professional support.

For complex phobias: Talking therapies like counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are often needed and take longer.

Medicines: Sometimes doctors prescribe medication to help with the anxiety symptoms, including antidepressants or medicines that calm anxiety.

Remember

Phobias are very common and nothing to be ashamed of. They can affect anyone at any age. The good news is that most phobias can be treated successfully with the right help.

If your phobia is making life difficult, don't suffer in silence. Speak to your GP - they're there to help, not judge.

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Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.