For people who suffer from phobias, fear becomes extreme and irrational. Those with phobias often have prolonged anxiety that can affect their emotional well being, and their ability to function in their day-to-day routines.
Phobias are intense fears of objects or situations that pose little or no harm in reality. Some phobias may have their own names, such as acrophobia (fear of heights) and agoraphobia (fear of open or public spaces). Some phobias are related to specific things such as spiders, water, or enclosed places
People who suffer from phobias become extremely anxious when exposed to a certain object or situation ( trigger ). Some sufferers may become anxious from simply thinking about their fear. Individuals may take great measures to avoid trigger objects or situations.
Phobias commonly cause panic attacks, characterized by difficulty breathing, sweating, racing heartbeat, and confusion. Many individuals have specific triggers that make them feel nervous or frightened. Once a phobia exists, sufferers may go to great lengths to avoid triggers. Depending on the nature of the phobia, this can make it difficult for sufferers to work, drive, care for children, spend time outside, or even go on holiday.
Exact causes of phobias are variable, and are often unknown. Some studies indicate that phobias are genetic. It is also theorized that childhood trauma, or observation of family members being frightened or injured, can stick with a child through adulthood, resulting in phobias. Since many phobias develop early in life, adults may not recall the specific events that cause phobias to develop.
If you have a phobia that is more than a manageable inconvenience. If your phobia makes it difficult to work, to function normally or is holding you back I can help.