PHOBIAS, THE FACTS

According to the NHS, a phobia is a type of anxiety disorder. While some people may not experience any symptoms until they come into contact with the source of their phobia, for others even thinking about that source can leave them anxious or panicky. This is known as anticipatory anxiety.

Symptoms may include unsteadiness, dizziness and lightheadedness, nausea, sweating, increased heart rate or palpitations, shortness of breath, trembling, shaking or an upset stomach. If you do not come into contact with the source of your phobia very often, it may not affect your everyday life.

Phobias do not have a single cause, but there are a number of associated factors – for example, a particular incident or trauma or a learned response. Genetics may play a role – there’s evidence to suggest that some people are born with a tendency to be more anxious than others.

See your GP for help and advice. They may refer you to a psychologist.

Almost all phobias can be successfully treated and cured. Simple phobias can be treated through gradual exposure to the object, animal, place or situation that causes the fear and anxiety.

This is known as desensitisation or self- exposure therapy.

Treating complex phobias often takes longer and involves talking therapies, such as counselling psychotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy ( CBT).

Medication is not usually used to treat phobias but is sometimes prescribed to help cope with the effects of anxiety. These include antidepressants, tranquillisers and beta blockers.

For information go to www2. hse. ie/ conditions/ mental- health/ phobias/ phobias- treatment. html