As the back-to-school season kicks into high gear, many are faced with new challenges and anxieties. Whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or the pressure of college exams, these life transitions can bring out fears and phobias for children and parents. You’re not alone. Millions of Americans struggle with various forms of anxiety and fear, like fear from public speaking to more specific phobias like arachnophobia (fear of spiders), acrophobia (fear of heights), and claustrophobia (closed spaces). Social phobias, the fear of social situations, are also common, affecting millions.
Fear is a normal human emotion, but when it becomes overwhelming and interferes with daily life, it may be classified as a phobia. A phobia is an uncontrollable, irrational, and lasting fear of a certain object, situation, or activity. The fear can be so overwhelming that a person may have a panic attack. According to John Hopkins Medicine, an estimated 19 million Americans have at least one phobia, ranging from mild to severe.
If you live in Massachusetts or Rhode Island, therapy sessions to address fears and phobias with an expert therapist at The Psyched Group are available in-person or virtually.
Why do fears and phobias escalate?
Irrational fears and phobia can be complex and vary from person to person. Past traumatic experiences, observing others’ fears, catastrophic thinking, avoidance behaviors, and panic attacks can contribute to the development of phobias.
Underlying medical conditions can also play a major role in mental health issues. Conditions such as thyroid disorders can cause as anxiety or fear-related symptoms. And according to Elle Russ, bestselling author of The Paleo Thyroid Solution, “Over 200 million people worldwide and more than 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, but 60 percent are undiagnosed and unaware of their condition.”
Sleep apnea or poor sleep quality can lead to depressed mood, increased stress, and higher anxiety, which can further exacerbate the symptoms of fears or phobias. These conditions can also impact cognitive function, making it more difficult to manage fear-related thoughts and behaviors.
Lesser known but problematic, Lyme disease and other tick borne infection can play a significant role in exacerbating fears, anxiety, and depression when the bacteria invades the nervous system, wreaking havoc on cognitive, emotional, and physiological functioning. Gone undetected, strep virus can lead to Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS), a condition that causes mental and other neurological symptoms as a result of strep infection. Most commonly known to cause a sore throat, strep can also attack the brain, potentially triggering intense anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors (OCD), and irrational fears or phobias.
Exposure Therapy: A Cornerstone Treatment for Fears and Phobias
One effective treatment for fears and phobias is exposure therapy which involves gradually exposing individuals to the feared object or situation in a controlled environment. By confronting their fears, individuals can learn to manage their anxiety and potentially ultimately overcome it.
How does exposure therapy work?
Exposure therapy typically involves creating a fear hierarchy, a ranked list of situations or objects that provoke anxiety. Starting with the least frightening item, individuals gradually work their way up the hierarchy as they become more comfortable with each step. For example, someone with a fear of heights might start by looking at pictures of tall buildings and progress to standing on a balcony.
A therapy session might involve discussing the fear hierarchy with a therapist, practicing relaxation techniques, and then engaging in exposure exercises. The therapist provides support and guidance throughout the process, helping the individual to challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about the feared stimulus.
Strategies for Overcoming Fears and Phobias
While exposure therapy is a powerful tool, it’s often combined with other therapeutic approaches for optimal results. Some additional strategies include:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that contribute to fear and anxiety. CBT helps individuals recognize and replace these distorted thoughts with more realistic and balanced perspectives. By understanding the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, individuals can develop healthier coping mechanisms. Techniques such as cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and relaxation training are commonly used in CBT to successfully address fears and phobias.
Mindfulness techniques: Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. Practices like meditation and deep breathing can help cultivate awareness of thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. This increased self-awareness can reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation related to fears and phobias.
Holistic Therapies: Holistic approaches can offer support for managing fear and anxiety. Some options include:
- Hypnotherapy: This involves guided relaxation and focused concentration to access the subconscious mind and address underlying fears. By bypassing conscious thought, hypnotherapy can help individuals identify and reprogram negative associations connected to phobias.
- Acupuncture: This ancient Chinese practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to regulate energy flow and reduce stress. Acupuncture can help alleviate physical tension and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial for managing anxiety and fear symptoms.
- Yoga: These mind-body practices combine physical movement with meditation and breathing exercises to promote relaxation and balance. Yoga can help individuals develop body awareness and stress management skills, which are helpful for overcoming fear and phobias.
- Nutritional Therapy: Addressing dietary factors and nutrient deficiencies can support overall mental health and well-being. Proper nutrition provides the body with the necessary building blocks for optimal brain function and emotional regulation, which can positively impact the management of fear and anxiety. For example, in this podcast, Dr. Mark Hyman discusses the correlation between anxiety and consuming gluten, even in those without celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- Naturopathy: Naturopathic doctors focus on treating the root cause of illness, including mental health conditions. They may investigate underlying medical issues such as thyroid problems, Lyme disease, or strep infections, which can contribute to anxiety and fear.
Finding Help in Rhode Island and Massachusetts
Whether you live in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, The Psyched Group has experienced therapists who specialize in treating fears and phobias. Our team understands the challenges and is committed to helping you overcome your anxiety. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By taking the first step toward overcoming your fears, you’re investing in your overall well-being and happiness.
To find a qualified Psyched therapist in Rhode Island or Massachusetts who specializes in overcoming fears and phobias, click here.
