Phobias

An estimated 9.1% of Americans have a specific phobia, 7.1% have a social phobia, and 0.9% have agoraphobia. A phobia is a type of anxiety disorder of persistent, irritational fear of an object or situation. Phobias should not be confused with having a fear of something, which is typical. Unlike a fear, a phobia will cause tremendous anxiety and often disrupt an individual's everyday life. As a result, it's essential to seek professional help for the diagnosis and treatment of phobias.

Types of Phobias

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) identifies three main categories of phobias:

1. Simple (Specific) Phobias: Those which focus on a specific object

2. Social Phobias: Causes extreme anxiety and panic in social settings

3. Agoraphobia: The fear of being alone in public spaces from which there is no easily identifiable escape

Signs of a Phobia

There is usually both an emotional and a physical reaction to a phobia. Some of the common symptoms are:

Physical:

• Difficulty breathing

• Pounding heart

• Chest tightness or pain

• Trembling

• Feeling dizzy or light-headed

• A churning stomach

• Hot or cold flashes

• Tingling sensations

• Sweating

Emotional:

• Feeling an intense need to escape

• A surge of panic or anxiety

• Detaching from yourself

• Fear of losing control

• Knowing that you're overacting but being unable to stop

When to Seek Help

It can be challenging to identify a phobia is more than just a fear. However, it's essential to get professional help for phobias as they can continue to grow and potentially negatively interfere with your life. Some of the signs that it's time to seek help are:

• It causes intense and disabling anxiety or panic

• You avoid certain situations, places, events, or people

• You know that the fear is unreasonable

• It's disrupting your regular routine

• You've been experiencing the phobia for at least six months

A psychiatrist will help you diagnose the disorder, prescribe medication (if necessary), and teach you coping tools to handle the phobia on a day-to-day basis.

Williamsville Psychiatrist: Your Top Psychiatrist in Buffalo

If you suspect you might be dealing with a phobia, contact Williamsville Psychiatrist for help. Our professional clinic is here to help you get the diagnosis and treatment you need, so you can regain control of your life.