Phobias - what they are and how to stop them taking over your life!

Many people have mild phobias, such as heights, snakes or spiders. However, sometimes we fear wind farms or cotton wool. The fear creates a fight or flight response and becomes highly disruptive to our lives.

Phobias fall under anxiety disorders. They are a debilitating fear of a feeling, object, place, animal or situation and often seem exaggerated.

Most people are able to manage their phobias so that they only feel uneasy around the situation or object. But if the response is extreme and affects your regular life, you may have to seek help.

• Psychological symptoms: A sense of dread or constantly feeling on edge. A preoccupation with the phobia.
• Physical symptoms: Dizziness, lack of sleep, irregular heartbeat, muscle tension, sweating or shaking, shortness of breath, feeling sick.