Phobias and fears

Intense, persistent fears of situations, places or things, and how they are treated.

• AgoraphobiaAgoraphobia is an anxiety disorder in which you fear and avoid places or situations where escape might be difficult or help might not be available if you panic or feel unwell. It can involve fear of crowds, public transportation, open or enclosed spaces, or simply leaving the house, and it is treatable with therapy.
• Emetophobia (fear of vomiting)Emetophobia is an intense, persistent fear of vomiting, seeing others vomit or feeling sick. It can lead people to avoid foods, places, travel or even pregnancy, and it often causes constant worry about nausea. Emetophobia is a specific phobia, and it responds well to treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy with gradual exposure.
• Fear of flyingFear of flying, also called aviophobia or flight anxiety, is an intense fear of traveling by plane. For some people it means nervous moments during takeoff; for others it means avoiding flights altogether, even when it costs them work or family time. It is one of the most treatable phobias, and many afraid flyers learn to fly with far less distress.
• Fear of public speakingFear of public speaking, also called glossophobia, is intense anxiety about speaking in front of others, from giving a presentation at work to making a toast. It's one of the most common fears and can range from mild presentation nerves to severe distress and avoidance. Practical strategies and therapy can help people speak with more confidence.
• PhobiasA phobia is an intense, persistent fear of a specific object, animal, place or situation that is out of proportion to the actual danger. People with a phobia often know their fear is excessive, yet they feel overwhelming anxiety when faced with it and go out of their way to avoid it. Phobias are among the most treatable anxiety problems.