PHOBIAS

Phobias are a type of anxiety disorder characterised by an intense and irrational fear of specific objects, situations, or activities. These fears go beyond the normal instinctive response to a potential threat and can cause significant distress and impairment in daily life. Phobias can develop in response to a traumatic experience or may arise without any apparent cause.

Some common phobias:

Fear of flying, Fear of dogs, Fear of spiders, Fear of surgery, Fear of general anaesthetic. Claustrophobia – fear of confined spaces (e.g. Lifts and elevators) 
Fear of public transportation, Fear of driving (usually after a traffic incident)
 Fear of the tube/underground, Fear of exams, Fear of being alone, Fear of the dentist / dental surgery. 
Fear of heights, Fear of bridges, Fear of driving test, Fear of injections, 
Fear of the dark.

Individuals with phobias often go to great lengths to avoid the object or situation that triggers their fear, and even the anticipation of encountering it can lead to anxiety and panic attacks.

Psychological symptoms:

1. Immediate and overwhelming feelings of panic or terror.
2. Anticipatory anxiety, worrying excessively about encountering the phobia trigger.
3. Feeling out of control or powerless when faced with the phobia.
4. Avoidance behaviors, such as going to great lengths to avoid the phobic object or situation.
5. Feeling distressed, helpless, or embarrassed due to the phobia.
6. Intrusive thoughts about the phobia, even when not directly exposed to it.

Physical symptoms:

1. Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) or palpitations.
2. Sweating, trembling, or shaking.
3. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
4. Chest pain or tightness.
5. Feeling dizzy or lightheaded.
6. Nausea or gastrointestinal distress.
7. Hot or cold flashes.
8. Numbness or tingling sensations.
9. Dry mouth.
10. Clammy hands or excessive sweating.
11. Choking sensation or difficulty swallowing.
12. Muscle tension or trembling.
13. Headaches or migraines.

It’s important to note that the specific symptoms experienced can vary between individuals and may depend on the type and severity of the phobia.

If you’re feeling any of these symptoms then it’s time to make a change. Self-Care Focused Therapy has been designed to open your mind and help you back to feeling in control