Treatments for phobias

Some people with a specific phobia that is easily avoidable choose not to pursue treatment, such as those who fear snakes. However, phobias that cannot reasonably be avoided and have a detrimental impact on daily life can be effectively treated with therapy or medication, or a combination of both.

Talking therapies

Exposure therapy

Exposure therapy features gradual and repeated exposure to the object or situation feared. Managed exposure allows the individual to experience the symptoms, understand the thoughts and sensations in a measured way to help them become desensitised to the situation or activity they fear.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is commonly used for people experiencing phobias following a traumatic incident and involves using eye movements combined with talk therapy in a specific way which helps people process negative emotions, thoughts and feelings associated with the trauma.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

CBT helps you understand the links between your thoughts, feelings and behaviour. It can help you to find ways to overcome your anxiety by challenging negative thoughts and beliefs.

You’ll usually be offered 12–15 weekly sessions each lasting 1 hour, but you can receive less or more depending on your needs.

Medications for anxiety

You may be offered medication to help manage your phobia. Some common medications are:

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) – SSRI’s are antidepressants used to help treat anxiety. Sertraline is the most common SSRI suggested for anxiety, but there are other SSRIs available
• Benzodiazepines – Doctors should only prescribe benzodiazepines if your anxiety is extreme or if you are in crisis. This is because they are addictive and become less effective if used long-term
• Beta-blockers – These can help with the physical signs of anxiety. They can help to lower a fast heartbeat, shaking or blushing

Complementary therapies

Complementary therapies are alternative treatments such as mindfulness, yoga and hypnotherapy. They are not usually part of NHS care, but many people find them useful for helping with symptoms of anxiety.

Self-help for anxiety

There are lots of self-help methods, often based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT helps you to rethink negative thoughts and behaviours.

• Non-facilitated self-help – This involves using information provided by the NHS to help yourself
• Guided self-help – A trained professional will take you through the information
• Psycho-educational groups – In a group, you’ll learn about your symptoms and how to manage them

Popular self-help methods that you can do at home to help you relax and manage your symptoms include:

• Doing relaxing tasks such as guided meditation or relaxing music
• Eating healthily
• Exercising
• Keeping a routine
• Try to get enough sleep
• Keep a mood diary to help you be aware of your symptoms, and what makes you better and worse

It’s important to find out what’s right for you. Things won’t change overnight, but over time you may notice your symptoms improving. Treatment and recovery from a phobia is possible.