I'm worried that my phobia is affecting my daily life
Around 10 million people in the UK have some sort of phobia, so remember that you are not alone. Phobias can affect anyone at any time in their lives, no matter who they are, where they are from, how old they are, or what personality type they are. Phobias can develop at any time, and are sometimes caused by childhood incidents linked to your trigger. It may be that you have a phobia that wasn't caused by a particular event, but is still as extremely difficult to deal with.
Phobias can feel different for everyone and symptoms can vary in severity. Some common symptoms may include:
- Panic about a specific trigger
- Anxiety about what may happen to you if you are around the trigger
- Dizziness and feeling faint
- Feeling sick when thinking about your trigger
- Rapid heart rate
- Feelings of being detached from your body
- Avoiding situations linked to your phobia
- Feeling as though you are in extreme danger
What to do
Your GP is usually, the first person to go to. They can assess you and explain treatments that are available.
Talking therapies may be an option and you can self-refer to TALKWORKS, Devon's NHS Talking Therapies Service.
If your phobia prevents you from seeking help, try some of the ideas on the MIND website.
If you are in crisis call 111 and select the mental health option or visit urgent help for more information.