A phobia is an intense, irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity. Unlike general anxiety, phobias are linked to triggers and can cause overwhelming distress which can manifest in various ways, including:

• Physical Symptoms:

o Rapid heartbeat

o Shortness of breath

o Sweating

o Trembling or shaking

o Dizziness or light-headedness

o Nausea

• Emotional Symptoms:

o Intense fear or panic

o Overwhelming worry or an intense fear

o Feeling out of control

o Avoidance behaviour

• Cognitive Symptoms:

o Racing thoughts

o Difficulty concentrating

o Catastrophic thinking

Phobias are not just excessive worries; they can lead to panic attacks and avoidance behaviours that significantly disrupt daily life.