Specific Phobia (SP)

Specific phobia is an anxiety disorder in which there is a marked fear or avoidance of a specific object or situation.  Common examples of specific phobias include (i) The sight of blood or injury; (ii) Birds; (iii) Insects (iv) Animals; (v) Heights; (vi) Dentists; (vii) Spiders and (viii) Flying

The fear occurs when thinking about, or coming into contact, with the feared object/situation and immediately provokes an anxiety response or acute symptoms of panic. At this stage the person may wish to escape or avoid any contact with the object or situation. On occasions life activities can become restricted because of it. The person is able to recognise the fear is exaggerated but is unable to eliminate the fear or reduce the avoidance.

More details about Specific Phobias are provided at NHS Choices