Don't Let Fear Take Over Your Life!

January 7, 2012 Posted by Sage Therapy Center in Therapist Blog

Don't Let Fear Take Over Your Life!

Even though it is in human nature to fear certain objects, animals or situations, sometimes; when the fright turns to horror and it takes over your life, it is best to consult with a San Diego therapist. The extreme and unreasonable fear of heights, snakes, needles, insects, germs and so on that is associated with physiological symptoms is known in the medical community as a phobia. It is important to note that people with phobias are so scared of the circumstance, animal or item that they start experiencing anxiety, restlessness and the physical reactions just by thinking of the object of their fear.

Overcome fear with a San Diego therapist.

The difference between phobias and normal fright

Fear is a normal adaptive human response in life threatening situations that determines the body and mind to become alert and hence, be able to respond quickly to protect the person from danger. The difference between a normal concern and a phobia is that the phobic perceives the threat even when it is not there or with an exacerbated level of danger. For instance, knowing that certain breeds of dogs, like the Rottweiler or Pit bull are usually dangerous, a normal person will simply get nervous at the sight of these specific dogs and avoid them. On the other hand, a phobic will refuse to go to the park or any other location where there is a minor possibility to see any dog.

The physical and psychological signs of phobia

The symptomatic picture of a phobic can present emotional and physical reactions varying from mild discomfort to a full blown panic attack. The symptoms experienced can aggravate severely if that person realizes that there are little chances of escaping the object of the fright. In addition, the closer a phobic is to the threatening object, the greater the amplification of the symptoms.

The physical reactions to a typical stressful situation for a phobic include excessive sweating, dizziness, lightheaded sensations, uncontrollable trembling or shaking, a pounding heart, tingling sensations, stomach churning, chest pains and difficulty breathing. The psychological signs associated with a phobia are loss of mental control, an unbearable sensation that he needs to get away, high levels of anxiety, panic, feeling powerless although realizing the overreaction and detachment from oneself.

When to seek help and treatment for phobias

The first sign that it is best to talk to a therapist is when the person acknowledges that he is dramatizing when posed face to face with the object of his fear. Another sign that it is time to see a specialist is when the person starts avoiding places and situations and the fright is so intense and disabling that the avoidance creates disturbances in the normal routine.

Given that a phobic cannot get rid of the anxiety and horror on his own, the best approach is to talk to a therapist. The methods employed by therapists are very effective and some patients have even reported a full recovery in one to four sessions. The top three phobia treatments used by a San Diego therapist and that have shown quick and overall positive results include: facing the fear one step at a time, learning relaxation techniques and challenging negative thoughts.

What are your thoughts? Please let me know by leaving a comment below.

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