Clearfork Academy logo
(888) 594-8699open 24/7

Phobias and Fears

Plus signs

Phobias and fears are relatively common disorders, and a comprehensive list of phobias would be quite extensive. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 10 million American adults suffer from a phobia.

What is Phobia?

A phobia is defined as an extreme irrational fear of or aversion to something that poses little or no actual danger. Such phobias and fears are classified as anxiety disorders. Thus, the negative consequences of phobias include panic attacks; physical symptoms, such as cold sweats and a racing heartbeat; and avoidance behaviors, in which the focus of phobia is shunned or eluded.

of phobia is shunned or eluded.

The most common phobias include fear of spiders (arachnophobia), fear of enclosed spaces (claustrophobia), fear of people (anthropophobia), and fear of open places (agoraphobia). Furthermore, a comprehensive list of phobias includes more obscure types, such as fear of beards (pogonophobia), fear of the navel (omphalophobia), and fear of rain (ombrophobia).

Arising in children or teens, most phobias and fears continue into adulthood. The causes of specific phobias are not known, but they can run in families. By using fear-reduction techniques that escalate to phobia exposure, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can effectively treat phobias. Moreover, in the early stages of therapy, pharmaceutical medications can help as well.

Sources: Oxford Dictionary, American Psychological Association, MentalHealth.Gov

It's Time to Make a Change

We Can Help You on Your Path to Mental Wellness

Call Today (888) 594-8699

Blog

Read More
Parent Information

How To Help A Teenager With Anxiety And Depression?

Anxiety and depression affect nearly 40% of teenagers, impacting their health, relationships, and academic performance. Learn the warning signs, different types of disorders, and how to support your teen through difficult times.

March 25, 2025

How Common is Drug Abuse in Schools?

March 25, 2025

Teen substance abuse is a growing concern, with many students experimenting with drugs and alcohol. Learn about the warning signs, school prevention strategies, and treatment options to support teens in making healthier choices.

How To Deal With A Difficult Teenager and Help Them?

March 25, 2025

Teen years bring challenges, but when behaviors like self-harm, reckless actions, or extreme mood swings appear, they could signal mental health struggles. Learn how to recognize red flags and support your teen effectively.

What Can Happen if Parents Ignore Their Teen’s Mental Illness?

March 20, 2025

Ignoring a teen’s mental health struggles won’t make them disappear—it can worsen symptoms, leading to academic decline, substance abuse, and long-term emotional challenges. Learn how to recognize the warning signs and why early intervention is crucial.

Copyright © 2025 Clearfork Academy | All Rights Reserved | Sitemap