Phobia is the Ancient Greek word for fear. A phobia is an abnormal, irrational and persistent fear of certain situations or things. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 19.2 million American adults suffer from one or more phobias.
Here are some common phobias:
Arachnophobia – Fear of spiders
Aerophobia – Fear of flying
Agoraphobia – Fear of open spaces or of being in crowded, public spaces in which escape is difficult.
Acrophobia – Fear of heights
Astraphobia – Fear of thunder and lightening
Claustrophobia – Fear of enclosed spaces
Glossophobia – Fear of public speaking
Mysophobia – Fear of germs or dirt
Social Phobia – Fear of social situations
Trypanophobia – Fear of injection or medical needles
As the Halloween season is upon us: Triskaidekaphobia- Fear of the number 13.
These are severe phobias or fears that may considerably hinder daily living. Many people also suffer from general fear. Fear created by negative thoughts. Fear is a feeling. It cannot actually hurt you.
“Fear is the path to the Dark Side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.” This was stated by Yoda, the wise little green man in the movie Star Wars. If you think about it, it makes sense.
Why should you continuously suffer from unrealistic fears? Fear is exhausting and it doesn’t get you anywhere. In fact, it prevents you from living a fulfilling life.
If you or anyone you know is suffering from fear or phobias, please seek help. There are various treatments that work. Avoidance is not a treatment.
For more information, please contact Dr. Lili Wagner at 661-644-5454.