Phobias

Phobias involve an intense and persistent fear of a specific object, situation, or activity. The fear experienced is disproportionate to the actual level of danger, yet it can feel immediate, overwhelming, and difficult to control.

Unlike everyday fears, phobias can significantly interfere with daily life. Individuals may go to considerable lengths to avoid the feared situation, even when it causes inconvenience or distress.

What Is a Phobia?

A phobia is a type of anxiety disorder characterised by excessive fear triggered by a specific stimulus. Common examples include:

• Fear of flying

• Fear of animals (e.g., dogs, spiders)

• Fear of vomiting

• Fear of driving

• Fear of enclosed spaces

When exposed to the feared object or situation, or even anticipating, individuals may experience intense anxiety or panic like symptoms.

How Therapy Can Help

Phobias respond very well to evidence-based psychological treatment.

Therapy may focus on:

• Understanding how fear is maintained

• Gradually reducing avoidance

• Learning strategies to manage anxiety symptoms

• Challenging catastrophic thinking

• Building confidence through structured gradual exposure