A #phobia is an #anxietydisorder defined by a persistent and excessive #fear of an object or situation. #Phobias typically result in a rapid onset of fear and are usually present for more than six months. Those affected go to great lengths to avoid the situation or object, to a degree greater than the actual danger posed. If the object or situation cannot be avoided, they experience significant distress. Other symptoms can include fainting, which may occur in #blood or injury phobia, and #panicattacks often found in #agoraphobia and #emetophobia
Phobias can be divided into specific phobias, #socialanxietydisorder and agoraphobia. Specific phobias are further divided to include certain animals, natural environment, blood or injury, and particular situations.

The most common are fear of spiders, fear of snakes, and fear of heights.

Around 75% of those with phobias have multiple phobias, we discuss the most common ones.