About 19 million Americans have one or more phobias that range from mild to severe. Whether it’s the fear of heights or dogs, those who experience a phobia can oftentimes find themselves struggling to navigate the anxiety that comes along with the fear, while finding a way to cope can seem nearly impossible for some. From the common nature of phobias themselves to how cognitive behavioral therapy can make a positive impact, here’s what you should keep in mind.
Understanding phobias — and how common they are
According to Verywell Mind, a phobia is defined as “an overwhelming, irrational, and persistent fear that leads to avoiding the object or situation.” Verywell Mind goes on to explain that phobias fall into a class of mental disorders, known as anxiety disorders. As a result, many who experience phobias also experience extreme anxiety along with the object/situation that is feared, and in some cases, an individual may organize their life to avoid their phobia, which can have further impacts. For instance, someone who has a fear of going to the doctor or dentist may put off important appointments, thus resulting in further health issues.
PsychCentral dives further into phobias, noting that a phobia can involve the fear of a particular object, person, situation, or activity. For those who experience a phobia, it’s noted that severe anxiety and panic attacks may occur when an individual is exposed to the object/situation they’re fearful of, thinking about what they’re afraid of, or anticipating an encounter with the phobia. According to 2020 research, common phobias include aerophobia (fear of flying), acrophobia (fear of heights), dentophobia (fear of going to the dentist), to name just a few, though there are rare phobias out there as well (like anthophobia, the fear of flowers).
How therapy can help
Thanatophobia, or the fear of death, is another common phobia — many fear death, for instance, due to the uncertainty surrounding the matter. The question “what happens after you die” can easily cause distress, causing individuals with this phobia to ruminate on the potential pain associated with death or the fear of no longer existing. As a result, someone who fears death may experience additional symptoms, such as increased anxiety, hypervigilance, and hypochondria — all of which can impact a person’s life. While many may manage the fear of death through radical acceptance or spirituality, treatments and therapies for phobias can range from medications such as anti-anxiety medicine, hypnotherapy, psychotherapy (talk therapy), exposure therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), depending on the individual and their circumstances.
The value of CBT
It’s important to note that about 75% of people with specific phobias are able to overcome their fears through cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), while 80% of those with social phobia find relief from medication, CBT therapy or a combination, according to the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health. A separate Verywell Mind post explains the role of cognitive behavioral therapy in managing phobias, explaining that CBT “enables you to manage your fears by helping you gradually change the way you think.”
For those who are struggling on a regular basis when it comes to fear and anxiety of a particular phobia, getting help through therapy may involve different techniques. Healthline notes that depending on the issue you’re navigating (as well as your goals), there are several ways to approach CBT. For example, it’s noted that exposure therapy can be used to confront fears/phobias. “The therapist will slowly expose you to the things that provoke fear or anxiety, while providing guidance on how to cope with them in the moment,” states the Healthline article, which goes on to point out that this can be done in small increments, allowing an individual to navigate their fears over time.
Having a phobia is common, and while it can seem nearly impossible to overcome, there are ways to navigate the matter. That said, managing phobias can be done in several ways, such as through CBT and exposure therapy.
Read Also
- The Role of Technology in Revolutionizing Senior Memory CareWhat if your loved one could feel safe, happy, and truly cared for every single day? Revolutionizing senior memory care means creating spaces where seniors can thrive, not just live. It’s about personalized support, warm connections, and activities that bring joy and purpose back into daily life. Every detail is designed to honor their memories… Read more: The Role of Technology in Revolutionizing Senior Memory Care
- Affordable and Effective Coquitlam Braces with My ORTHODONTISTA confident smile is more than just a set of straight teeth—it’s a reflection of self-esteem, health, and happiness. For families in Coquitlam, finding braces that are both affordable and effective can sometimes feel like a challenge. That’s where My ORTHODONTIST steps in, offering trusted orthodontic care that helps patients achieve beautiful smiles without breaking… Read more: Affordable and Effective Coquitlam Braces with My ORTHODONTIST
- A Guide to Senior Behavioral Health: Supporting Aging Minds With CareWhat keeps the mind strong and healthy in later years of life? Aging brings unique changes that affect how older adults think, feel, and connect with others. Mental and emotional health often play a key role in overall well-being. Seniors may face stress, sadness, or confusion due to life transitions. Family and caregivers may sometimes… Read more: A Guide to Senior Behavioral Health: Supporting Aging Minds With Care
- Transforming Mental Health Care: Embracing Remote Therapy for Michigan ResidentsThe Digital Shift in Mental Health Services The therapy landscape has been rewired by technology at a speed that would make any traditionalist blink. According to the American Psychological Association, nearly 96% of psychologists reported providing telehealth in 2020, compared to just 7% the previous year. That surge wasn’t a fad—it was an overdue modernization.… Read more: Transforming Mental Health Care: Embracing Remote Therapy for Michigan Residents
- The Role of Community in Assisted Living: Enhancing Quality of LifeHave you ever thought about how being part of a community can make life better in assisted living? Living near friendly neighbors and caring staff gives you more than safety-it brings friendship, fun, and shared moments. Joining in activities, events, and daily routines helps you feel happy, active, and valued. Being part of a group… Read more: The Role of Community in Assisted Living: Enhancing Quality of Life