10 Most Common Phobias...Some Fears We Never Outgrow

We are all afraid of something, but a phobia is an extreme or irrational fear. I guess the question could be asked, "irrational to whom"? As children many of us are afraid of the dark, but we usually outgrow this fear. I used to be afraid of spiders until my best friend introduced me to her pet tarantula. Now my philosophy on spiders is catch and release.

What happens when our childhood fear never go away? For some unspeakable reason you remain afraid of the dark, or spiders, or snakes? Some of our fears we can avoid, such as clowns. Fear of clowns is a somewhat common fear, but most of us do not interact with clowns on a regular basis.

Now what about public speaking? In school did you shrink every time you were called on in class, or had to speak in front of a group of people? Do you still get nervous speaking in front of groups?

Photo from Anxiety Foundation

Unfortunately, not only can we carry our childhood phobias into adulthood, we can also develop these irrational fears later on in life. As we age, and mature, we become more knowledgeable. Sadly, with that knowledge comes the realization that maybe there is a lot to fear in this world. As much as there is to fear, the awareness that we as humans lack the ability to control many things can exacerbate these fears. 

Here Are Some Of The Most Common Phobias...

1. Arachnophobia - Fear of Spiders

2. Acrophobia - Fear of Heights

3. Agoraphobia - Fear of Open Spaces, Public Areas, and Crowded Areas

4. Cynophobia - Fear of Dogs

5. Mysophobia - Fear of Germs

6. Ophidiophobia - Fear of Snakes

7. Aerophobia - Fear of Flying

8. Claustrophobia - Fear of Small Spaces

9. Trypanophobia - Fear of Needles or Injections

10. Thanotophobia - Fear of Dying

Fears are natural, but can become problematic when they impair your ability to function. Fears can paralyze us, stunt growth, and ruin lives. There are many ways to deal with fears, whether it is counseling, medication, or straight up facing your fears head on. 

Facing my fear directly was how I got over my fear of shots. I would feel the anxiety creep in with anticipation, but I overcame that fear by not turning away. I believed that seeing the process gave me some control, and took away the anxiety and fear of what was ultimately very little pain.

I am sure that everyone uses their on little tricks to overcome fears. I know some people sing, or talk as a distraction. What do you do to overcome your phobias or fears?

For help dealing with your phobias, visit the Help Guide.

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