Television loves stories about unusual phobias, especially when someone is faced with the thing they fear. For the viewer it can seem light-hearted. For the person living with the phobia, it can take a real emotional toll. Here are four of the most common ways.
Feeling ashamed
Most people with a phobia know their fear is out of proportion, which can make it embarrassing to talk about. Others may laugh, or get frustrated that it does not just go away. For people with social fears, the worry about being judged can make the phobia even stronger.
Feeling powerless
Some people live with a phobia for most of their lives without help. It can start to feel like part of who they are, as though nothing can be done. Many simply do not know where to turn.
Feeling frustrated
Shame and helplessness can quickly turn into frustration. You may ask yourself why this is happening, or feel cross with yourself for not beating it. If friends and family are frustrated too, it can make things harder.
Feeling lonely
After a while, many people stop talking about their fear. They are tired of being told it is not real and that they should just get over it, so they deal with it alone.
You do not have to go it alone
If a phobia is affecting your life, support makes a real difference. The sooner you deal with it, the less room it has to grow.
Want help with a phobia?
Take the free phobia test to see how strong your fear is, or book a £49 consultation call and we can talk it through.
Leave a Reply