Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to help you function effectively. The success of the treatment usually depends on the severity of the phobia.

Systematic desensitization is a technique used to treat phobias. You are asked to relax, then imagine the components of the phobia, working from the least fearful to the most fearful. Gradual exposure to the real-life situation has also been used with success to help people overcome their fears.

Anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications are sometimes used to help relieve the symptoms of phobias. See: Panic disorder for more information about medications.

Behavioral therapies should be used together with drug therapy. These include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy, including learning to recognize and replace panic-causing thoughts
• Exposure
• Pleasant mental imagery
• Relaxation techniques

Behavioral treatment appears to have long-lasting benefits.

Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and regularly scheduled meals may help reduce the frequency of the attacks. Reduce or avoid the use of caffeine, some over-the-counter cold medications, and other stimulants.

Phobia clinics and group therapy are available in some areas to help people deal with common phobias, such as a fear of flying.

Expectations (prognosis):

Phobias tend to be chronic, but they can respond to treatment.

Complications:

Some phobias may have consequences that affect job performance or social functioning. Some anti-anxiety medications used to treat phobias, such as benzodiazepines, may cause physical dependence.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider or a mental health professional if a simple phobia is interfering with life activities.