Phobias are persistent, irrational fears that cause individuals to avoid specific objects, situations or events or endure them with dread. Phobias can occur in several forms such as:
• Irrational fears of specific things (animals, needles, water, tunnels, etc.)
• Irrational fears of specific situations (closed-in places, flying, injuries involving blood, etc.)
• Fear of embarrassment in a public setting (social phobia).

Most people experience these fears with mild to moderate intensity, however, the fear can also be extremely intrusive. The avoidance, fear, or anxious anticipation of encountering the object, situation or event must significantly impair an individual’s daily routine, work or personal functioning or social life before a diagnosis of "phobia" is warranted.

Approximately 4-5% of the US population has one or more clinically significant phobias in a given year, while many more experience phobic reactions that do not result in a formal diagnosis because the impairment is not significant enough. Phobias can be developed at any age although social phobia is most commonly developed between 15 – 20 years of age. Traumatic events can also trigger the development of specific phobias (i.e. being attacked by an animal, being trapped in a closet).

While most of us may fear or stay clear of situations, events or objects that we do not enjoy, some of us may have irrational fears that lead us to avoid altogether specific things or situations that trigger intense anxiety. If you experience intense and extreme anxiety or fear a particular event, situation, or thing that results in you avoidance of it or provokes an immediate anxiety response, then you may have a phobia.

When phobias interfere with you life or your life choices, treatment can help. Click here to learn more.

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