An irrational fear, also known as a phobia, is an intense fear of something that, in reality, poses little or no actual danger. While most phobias develop in childhood, they can also develop in later life. A fear becomes a phobia when it is so severe that it causes tremendous anxiety and interferes with normal life. People with a phobia understand that their fear is irrational, yet they still cant control their feelings. Just thinking about the feared object or situation may make them feel anxious, and when theyre actually exposed to the thing they fear, the terror is automatic and overwhelming.

Phobias can be specific, such as the fear of spiders, heights, or dentists, or more generalized, such as the fear of open spaces, a fear of interacting with other people (social phobia), or even the dread of developing a phobia (phobophobia) . The 10 most commonly reported phobias in the UK, according to a survey by Anxiety UK, are: spiders, social situations, flying, heights, small spaces, open spaces, vomiting, needles, dentists, and dogs.

Phobias can be debilitating and take an immense toll on mental wellbeing and quality of life. However, all phobias are treatable, and there is no need for anyone to continue to suffer. Treatment for phobias often involves exposure therapy, where the person is gradually exposed to the thing they fear in a safe and controlled environment. Other treatments include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation techniques, biofeedback, regular deep breathing, and support.