We often hear people say they have a ‘phobia’ but how much information do you have about phobia. Maybe that extreme fear you experience toward something can be cured. Being uncomfortable and panicking all the time can be the worst feeling ever.This article will enlighten you about some of the common types of phobias that exist and symptoms to look out for inorder to know if you are suffering from one.
What is phobia?
Phobia is an extreme fear or dislike of a particular thing or situation, especially one that is not reasonable according to the Cambridge dictionary.
Even though phobia can be genetic, in some instances it is caused by previous experiences for example being attacked by a dog can make one experience extreme fear of dogs.
10 most common types of phobias
1. Nyctophobia – This is the extreme fear of the dark. Individuals with this Phobia tend to sleep with lights on.
2. Cynophobia – This is the fear of dogs. We have all come across people who are extremely afraid of being close to dogs even though they do not show interest of attacking them.
3.Acrophobia – Extreme fear of heights. This fear causes them to avoid high grounds such as mountains, tall buildings or Bridges.
4. Hemophobia – Fear of blood. The sight of blood scares many but people suffering from this Phobia cannot stand blood completely.
5. Social Phobia/ social anxiety disorder – This is the extreme worry of social situations. This individuals tend to avoid social situations.
6. Astraphobia – Fear of storm. During thunderstorms the loud sound of thunder will cause this individuals to panic even though nothing will happen to them.
7. Claustrophobia – This is the fear of tight or closed spaces e.g elevators
8. Arachnophobia – Fear of spiders. People suffering from this Phobia experience alot of discomfort just by the sight of a spider.
9. Androphobia – This is the extreme fear of men. This individuals panic when around anyone masculine.
10. Glossophobia – This is a Phobia associated with public speaking. Standing in front of an audience will cause the person to sweat or experience a racing heart.
Symptoms likely to experience
One may experience one of the symptoms or a combination of this symptoms. They include:
- Racing heart
- Trembling or shaking
- Rapid speech/ inability to speak
- Profuse sweating
- Dry mouth
- Lightheadedness
- Stomach upset
Though people can live well with this phobias, in some situations it becomes extreme and interferes with ones day to day activities. It is at this stage that you a visit to the doctor is important for therapy or provide medication where needed.
THE UNSPOKEN 