Phobia
Description of Phobia
Definition
A phobia is a type of anxiety disorder. It is a strong, irrational fear of something that poses little or no real danger. A phobia often makes a person fearful for certain situation and as a result the person may get severe symptoms.
Causes and Risk Factors
Phobias usually start in children or teens, and continue into adulthood. The causes of specific phobias are not known, but they sometimes run in families.
Signs and Symptoms
Common symptoms of phobia include:
1. Anxiety
2. Fear
3. Restlessness
4. Extremely self-conscious in everyday social situations (social phobia)
5. Panic and fear
6. Rapid heartbeat
7. Shortness of breath
8. Trembling
9. Strong desire to get away
Treatment
Treatment mostly involves:
1. Medication
2. Therapy
NIH: National Institute of Mental Health
Frequently Asked Questions about Phobia
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