Learn More About Specific Phobias
Treatment for specific phobias may include one or a combination of:
For most people, specific phobias can be successfully treated with therapy and, in some cases, medication.
Although many specific phobias cannot be prevented, early intervention and treatment following a traumatic experience, such as an animal attack, may prevent the person from developing a severe anxiety disorder.
Specific Phobias
In this article
- What Are the Symptoms of Specific Phobias?
- How Common Are Specific Phobias?
- What Causes Specific Phobias?
- How Are Specific Phobias Diagnosed?
- How Are Specific Phobias Treated?
- What Is the Outlook for People With Specific Phobias?
- Can Specific Phobias Be Prevented?
How Are Specific Phobias Treated?
Treatment for specific phobias may include one or a combination of:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy: Psychotherapy is the cornerstone of treatment for specific phobias. Treatment usually involves a type of cognitive behavioral therapy, called systematic desensitization or exposure therapy , in which patients are gradually exposed to what frightens them until their fear begins to fade.
- Medication: For situational phobias that produce intense, temporary anxiety (for example, a fear of flying), short-acting sedative-hypnotics (benzodiazepines) such as Ativan, or Xanax may be prescribed on an occasional, as-needed basis to help reduce anticipatory anxiety. Unless a phobia is accompanied by other conditions such as depression or panic disorder, long-term or daily medicines are generally not used. Occasionally, serotonergic antidepressants such as Paxil may have potential value for some patients.
- Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, may also help reduce anxiety symptoms.
What Is the Outlook for People With Specific Phobias?
For most people, specific phobias can be successfully treated with therapy and, in some cases, medication.
Can Specific Phobias Be Prevented?
Although many specific phobias cannot be prevented, early intervention and treatment following a traumatic experience, such as an animal attack, may prevent the person from developing a severe anxiety disorder.
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