Different Types of Phobias
- Agoraphobia: The word “agoraphobia” itself means fear of open spaces. This can include crowded places, supermarket, theaters, concerts, etc. Often people with agoraphobia avoid these situations and places, as they think they could trigger another panic attack. In severe cases, people with agoraphobia do not leave their homes.
Symptoms of Phobias
The symptoms of a phobia — and their intensity — can vary as there are many types of known phobias. However, the most common symptom of phobia is a panic attack. If you're having a panic attack you may feel:
- Shaking or trembling
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Racing heartbeat
- As if you have no control over the situation
- As if you are dying
- Dry mouth
How to Treat Phobias
Even though phobias are unpleasant, they are very common and highly treatable. If, for example, you are afraid of snakes, it won't affect your life too much as you likely don't encounter them often.
On the other hand, complex phobias such as agoraphobia and social phobia need your attention. These are conditions that can dramatically change your lifestyle and daily routine and lead to complete isolation in the most severe cases.
Treatment is different for each individual, and for each kind of phobia — there is no one unique treatment used. However, there are some basic steps you can take in order to cope with your fear:
- Face your fears: This is the most common method for self-help when you are dealing with phobias. The key factor here is to face your fear as you gradually expose yourself to the situation that triggers your phobia, and you'll eventually become desensitized to it.
- Learn to relax: Stress is a huge issue with anxiety. To learn how to cope with your phobia you will have to manage some relaxation techniques, including exercise, meditation, and breathing techniques.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This is one of the most common methods for treating phobias. A therapist will help you develop strategies to cope with your phobia by examining how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors all affect each other.
- Hypnosis: Hypnosis is gaining popularity as a method of dealing with phobias and anxiety disorders. According to studies, hypnosis is extremely useful with treating panic attacks, phobias, sleep disorders, and stress.
