Fears and Phobias

Front

What is a phobia?

Back

A phobia is an intense, irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity that leads to avoidance behavior.

Front

What is the difference between fear and phobia?

Back

Fear is a normal emotional response to a real threat, while a phobia is an excessive and irrational fear that can interfere with daily life.

Front

What are common types of phobias?

Back

Common types of phobias include arachnophobia (fear of spiders), claustrophobia (fear of confined spaces), and acrophobia (fear of heights).

Front

What is the 'fight-or-flight' response?

Back

The 'fight-or-flight' response is a physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived harmful event, attack, or threat to survival.

Front

How can therapy help with phobias?

Back

Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help individuals confront and manage their phobias through gradual exposure and coping strategies.

Front

What role do psychiatrists play in treating phobias?

Back

Psychiatrists can diagnose phobias and prescribe medication or therapy to help individuals manage their symptoms.

Front

What is social anxiety disorder?

Back

Social anxiety disorder is a chronic mental health condition characterized by an intense fear of social situations and being judged by others.

Front

What are some symptoms of phobias?

Back

Symptoms of phobias can include rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, and overwhelming anxiety when faced with the feared object or situation.

Front

What is desensitization in the context of phobias?

Back

Desensitization is a therapeutic technique that involves gradual exposure to the feared object or situation to reduce anxiety.

Front

What does it mean to avoid a phobia?

Back

Avoiding a phobia means steering clear of situations or objects that trigger fear, which can reinforce the phobia over time.