One of the most common kinds of anxiety disorders are
phobias, which are irrational fears surrounding a specific object or situation.
With this type of disorder, the fear is persistent and reoccurring, even though
the feared object or situation entering a person’s life is often out of control
of that person. This anxiety disorder is affecting up to 18% of Americans and
is the second most common mental illness among men and the most common mental
illness among woman. For many, phobias interfere with daily life.
Luckily, there is help. There are many ways to treat
phobias, no matter how they have developed. If you think that you suffer from a
phobia, no matter what it may be, see your doctor immediately. He or she can
recommend a treatment plan for you so that you can begin to overcome your fears
and take back the control of your daily life. Phobias do not have to say with
you forever.
Clinical phobias are separated into three main categories:
social phobias (in which a person fears involvement with people and social
situations), specific phobias (in which a certain trigger like heights,
spiders, water, or flying can cause fear), and agoraphobia (in which a person
fears leaving the comfort and familiarity of home or a safe area). There are
many different treatments you can try in order to cope with any of these
phobias.
Virtual reality is a relatively new kind of treatment used
specifically to desensitize a patient. With virtual reality, a person is
immersed in fear until becoming immune to it, essentially. You can also
actually put the patient in a fearful situation, but this can sometimes be
dangerous or expensive, so virtual reality is a great alternative. It also
gives patients the chance to pull the plug, so to speak, if needed, so more
patients agree to this treatment.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy may also work to help overcome
a phobia. With this method, you examine your specific thoughts and behaviors
and work to overcome them. You can do this one-on-one with a therapist or in a
group setting. By understanding your fears, it may be easier to realize that
your fears are irrational.
Anti-anxiety drugs may also help you make strides towards
overcoming your phobias. These medications are prescription strength and are
available for both long-term and short-term use. One example of a drug that has
help people with phobias is benzodiazepine. Often, medication works best in
conjunction with other types of therapy treatments.