| Phobias can take many forms but share the common core of creating fear and avoidance behaviours in the sufferer. The most well known phobias are Agoraphobia (literally fear of the market place), Social Phobia (often confused with Agoraphobia), spiders, flying, birds etc. These conditions can begin with a trauma or panic attack or strong sense of fear in a given situation which can build over time into a complete avoidance of the feared situation. The results can be very damaging to normal life, preventing sufferers from taking part in normal social activities, household duties or work. |
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Agoraphobia accounts for nearly 60% of all phobias and it is estimated to be more prevalent in women than men (66% to 33%). Some studies show that it may be a genetically influenced condition. It is important to have a proper diagnosis of this condition as it can be confused with Depressive illness, medication induced withdrawals or even some physical disorders. Some of the symptoms that can be experienced include:
- Feelings of panic such as heart palpitations, sweating
- A growing need to avoid the situation which engenders the fear
- Increasing sense of anxiety
- Perceived inability to carry on with daily life
Treatment usually involves the use of some type of cognitive therapy combined with gradual and supported exposure to the behaviour, place, or objects which the sufferer is avoiding. Treatment is often successful and is best undertaken with a therapist who is skilled in this particular field. David McLellan is the expert in this area as far as APS is concerned. You can contact David through the Contact Us page of this web site
To arrange an appointment with a private psychiatrist in the Kent or South East London areas visit our Links page, or contact your GP.
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