Phobia: What Is A Phobia?
Do you know someone who is terrified of something like the sound of chalk squeaking on a chalkboard? That person might have a phobia. A phobia is an intense, often irrational fear of something that poses little or no actual danger.
Thankfully, there are people out there who are trying to control their fear and live life to the fullest. They joined forces in 2006 and created the Phobics Of America (POA) group. POA's goal is to provide support and information for those living with a phobia. The site also provides links to numerous resources including medical doctors, psychologists, and even a list of support groups for those who have a phobia.
POA does not provide advice in regards to treatment for specific phobias. The organization does, however, encourage people to talk with their phobia providers and to seek the help of a trained professional, when needed. If you have a phobia and are afraid this might affect your health, or you feel such fear that it's having an impact on your daily life; you may want to seek out a trained professional. If you speak with your doctor and he/she doesn't provide relief; then it's time to find someone who can help you get back on track with life.
Phobias are diagnosed by psychiatrists and clinical psychologists. Both can provide the appropriate treatment to help a person cope with the intense fear, but only a psychiatrist can prescribe medications. In order for a phobia to be considered a clinical disorder, it must cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
Not all phobias are created equal; and not all disorders have the same intensity either. With that being said, here are some of the most common phobias.
Agoraphobia is often considered a long-standing fear of open spaces, public places, or public transportation. The person with agoraphobia will avoid these activities in order to stay safe and prevent panic attacks. Agoraphobia diagnoses are more common in women than men; and both men and women are diagnosed with the disorder at nearly equal rates.
Acrophobia is an excessive panic resulting from fear of heights or exposure to high places. Some people fear heights more than others; but all who have it have the same fear. Acrophobia is often caused by a history of falling at a young age.
Anaclitism is the irrational fear of being alone. Most people who suffer from this phobia feel it's completely normal to be alone and they wonder why other people don't share this potential phobic behavior with them.
Anxiety is often a result of the fear of being in a place or situation where escape might be difficult; and it's not really considered a phobia, but rather an anxiety disorder. Some people experience anxiety symptoms, such as panic attacks that lead to agoraphobia because they do not want to be alone.
Erythrophobia is the intense fear of blushing or blushing in front of other people. It's also referred to as "social blushing" or "shyness. Some people may be afraid of being embarrassed by their blushing because they fear that others will judge them. But, this form of "blushing" is not really considered a phobia. It may also be caused by a feeling of shame or embarrassment that causes the person to avoid social situations; and it has nothing to do with blushing or overheating.
Henosis is the irrational fear of crowds, large groups, or social gathering places. It could be a result of a childhood experience in which the person was humiliated or embarrassed. Henosis may also be caused by being a part of a bad or judgmental crowd.
Iatrophobia is the fear of going to the doctor. Medicine is often uncomfortable for some people; but it's not phobic behavior and it's not really considered a phobia either.
Ophidiophobia is the intense fear of snakes; such as, snakes, spiders, insects, and other similar creatures. Ophidiophobia is often caused by a traumatic experience with a snake or insect. The person might have been bitten, or they may be afraid of being attacked or killed.
Dentophobia is the intense fear of dentists and/or dental work; and it's also considered a phobia. Some people are terrified to fall asleep because they are afraid they're not going to wake up from their dental appointment.
Agoraphobia is an intense fear of being in an open place, such as on the streets or other public places, often resulting in the avoidance of leaving home. Agoraphobia may cause panic attacks, but it's not considered a phobia.
Insectophobia is an intense and irrational fear of insects or bugs. Some people are terrified of spiders; and others have a phobia of cockroaches or similar creatures. It can also be caused by a traumatic experience with an insect.
Conclusion
Of course there are phobias that have nothing to do with insects. There are also phobias that have nothing to do with being outdoors or in a public place.
To find out if you have a phobia, you should first consult with your doctor. If symptoms begin to manifest, it's important to get help as soon as possible. When looking for help or support; you may want to consider joining a group such as the Phobics Of America (POA).