Specific Phobia

What is specific phobia?

Specific phobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of a particular object or situation. This fear is either irrational or out of proportion to the actual danger posed by the object. Examples of specific phobias include the fear of spiders, heights, flying and needles. 

How to identify specific phobia?

• Severe anxiety when confronted with a specific situation

• The anticipation of that situation itself triggers anxiety

• Going to great lengths to avoid the feared situation

• Panic-like symptoms (such as palpitations, sweating, trembling) when faced with the object or situation

What causes specific phobia?

Family history of specific phobias indicate a genetic component to this condition. Negative associations with specific object or situations can also be learnt - either through direct experiences or from other people. Specific phobia most often begins in childhood and persists into adulthood. 

When to seek help?

Fear is a normal human response. We may experience fear when taking an exam or standing at the edge of a cliff. However, a phobia is diagnosed when the anxiety experienced is not keeping with the actual threat of the situation. At the same time, it’s important to seek help when the tendency to avoid the situation at all costs negatively impacts activities of everyday living. 

What is the treatment for specific phobia? 

Exposure therapy that is the most effective treatment for specific phobias. This form of therapy involves learning relaxation techniques and gradually facing the feared object. This exposure can be in real life, through visualization and now even through virtual reality-based programs. Medicines may also be helpful in treating the panic like anxiety associated with phobias.