Phobias

Phobias Q & A

What are phobias?

Phobias are a type of anxiety disorder. People with a phobia have an intense, irrational fear of situations or objects that are out of proportion with any actual danger or threat.

However, the fear related to your phobia is so overwhelming that you may do everything possible to avoid the situation or object. 

Phobias affect people of all ages, including young children. But they most often appear during adolescence and continue into adulthood.

Researchers theorize that genetics and environmental factors may play a role in the development of phobias. Many people develop phobias when they have a bad first encounter with an object or situation.  

What are the types of phobias?

There are three main types of phobias: specific phobias, social phobia, and agoraphobia.

Specific phobias

Specific phobias include irrational fears over certain objects or situations, such as the fear of spiders or the fear of flying. People with specific phobias may know their fear is irrational, but struggle to manage it.

You may not realize you have a specific phobia until it interferes with your daily activities. 

Social phobia

Social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder, causes intense fear and worry about being embarrassed or humiliated during social situations. People with social phobia may avoid interacting with others because of these fears.

Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is the fear of being trapped in places where it’s hard to escape or difficult to find help. People with agoraphobia may feel uncomfortable going to the grocery store, using public transportation, or in places with large crowds. 

You may develop agoraphobia after having a panic attack. You may avoid the place or situation where you had the panic attack, fearing it may trigger another panic attack. 

People with agoraphobia may struggle with other mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. 

How are phobias treated?

High Desert Psychological Services takes a client-centered approach to care. Treatment for your phobia depends on your phobia type and the severity of your symptoms.

Your phobia treatment plan may include:

• Individual counseling

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

• Exposure therapy

• Medication management

Your therapist at High Desert Psychological Services works closely with you to help ease anxiety about your phobia and improve your quality of life. 

Don’t let your phobias keep you from living your life. Call High Desert Psychological Services or schedule a consultation online today.