Medical definition of psychological phobia

Psychophobia, medically known as specific phobia, is a subtype of anxiety disorder characterized by sustained and irrational strong fear reactions towards specific objects, situations, or activities. The core characteristic of specific phobias is that patients experience immediate anxiety reactions when exposed to sources of fear, which may be accompanied by autonomic symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, and tremors. In severe cases, this can lead to avoidance behavior. Fear objects are usually classified into animal, natural environment, blood injection injury, situational, and other types, among which fear of heights, confined spaces, and insects is more common. The pathogenesis involves neurobiological factors such as genetic susceptibility and overactivation of the amygdala, and some patients are associated with childhood traumatic experiences. The diagnosis requires the exclusion of other mental illnesses such as generalized anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, with a duration of more than 6 months and significant impact on social function.

Patients should avoid relieving anxiety through alcohol or excessive dependence on family members, and can try progressive exposure therapy combined with abdominal breathing training. Maintaining a regular daily routine can help stabilize emotional fluctuations. It is recommended to record the triggers and coping strategies for fear attacks. If persistent palpitations and avoidance behaviors affect work and life, it is necessary to seek timely evaluation at a psychiatric department. Cognitive behavioral therapy and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have significant effects on improving symptoms.