Phobia

What Is Phobia?
Phobia is defined as persistent, unfounded fear of an object, activity or situation. Phobias affect about 15 million adults in the U.S.

Signs & Symptoms
There are three kinds of phobias:

• Specific phobia is excessive fear of an object or situation that as a rule isn't dangerous. Fear of flying is a common example. People with specific phobias know their fear is unreasonable, but they can't control it.
• People with agoraphobia are afraid of being in situations that could bring on a panic attack or be difficult to leave. If they don't get treatment, agoraphobic people can get to the point of refusing to leave their homes.
• Social phobia, or social anxiety, is extreme fear of being embarrassed in public or social situations. The most common social phobia is public speaking. Others include fear of meeting people or being afraid to use public restrooms.

Physical symptoms for all phobias are the same as for panic disorder: racing heart, shaking or trembling, shortness of breath.

Who's at Risk?
Women are twice as likely as men to suffer from most phobias, although social anxiety is just as common in both sexes. A family history of phobia also increases your chance of developing a one.

Risk for developing social anxiety also includes factors such as past negative experiences like teasing or bullying, and having a shy or timid temperament.

Professional Help
Phobias are usually life-long disorders, although symptoms often will come and go. The most effective treatment for controlling phobia is a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. If you have symptoms of any of these phobias, talk to your doctor or other health professional.

Priority Health members can check here for information on getting mental health assistance.

What You Can Do
If you're being treated for phobia, you'll see the best results if you:

• Take your prescribed doses of medication on schedule.
• Attend all of your therapy sessions.
• Get enough rest, eat right and find time to relax. Stay away from caffeine and nicotine. Don't rely on alcohol or unprescribed drugs to relieve symptoms.
• Get perspective by talking with a close family member, friend or counselor.
• Consider joining a support group.
• Learn everything you can about OCD and other anxiety disorders. Read more here:
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post traumatic stress disorder