مقاله تخصصی
Phobia treatment
3 months ago
477 بازدید
Dr. Melika Akbari Mehr
تهرانNeurologist and neurologist
Fear is a natural and necessary reaction for survival, but when this reaction occurs in an extreme and irrational way to certain stimuli, it takes on a traumatic aspect. This situation is known as phobia in psychology; A type of anxiety disorder that is associated with extreme avoidance and physical and psychological reactions and can severely affect the quality of life. In this article, we have scientifically and expertly examined the solutions for phobia treatment. What is a phobia and why is it necessary to treat it? Patients with severe fears usually experience panic, shortness of breath, heart palpitations or even panic attacks in front of certain situations or objects. Common examples of phobias include extreme fear of things such as heights, animals, enclosed spaces, or social situations. Treatment of this condition is very important for various reasons, including preventing social isolation, reducing chronic anxiety and improving mental health. Also, scientific evidence shows that failure to address this type of disorder may lead to other psychological disorders such as depression or obsession. What are the symptoms of phobia? Before going to any kind of treatment, it is necessary to know what symptoms can be alarm bells. Below are some of these symptoms that, if repeated, it is necessary to see a specialist. When fear becomes too normal and interferes with a person's daily functioning, it should not be ignored. There are some symptoms that can be considered as indicators for the need to start treatment. These signs include:
- Continuous and irrational avoidance of certain situations or objects
- Occurrence of severe physical reactions such as shortness of breath, sweating or tremors
- Disruption of social relationships or job performance
- Feeling of chronic restlessness and persistent anxiety
- Experiencing panic attacks when facing the fear factor
Read What is a phobia and how is it different from fear? | Full introduction of phobia and its causes and treatment
Psychotherapy is the first and most effective way to deal with severe fears. One of the most common methods is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of treatment is based on identifying and correcting the patient's irrational thought patterns and avoidance behaviors. During CBT sessions, the patient learns how to analyze stressful thoughts and give them healthier behavioral responses. On the other hand, the therapist usually uses techniques such as exposure therapy, which gradually exposes the person to the fear factor in order to reduce his sensitivity. This process is a type of controlled habituation that, according to clinical studies, has been very effective in the treatment of fear disorders. Is it possible to overcome irrational fears with self-help techniques? Although professional treatment by a psychotherapist is preferred, in some mild cases or as a supplement to treatment, using self-help techniques can also be useful. Patients who have proper awareness of their psychological state can take effective steps to control their reactions with mindfulness exercises, deep breathing methods, writing down experiences and analyzing anxiety-provoking situations. Of course, it should be noted that self-help techniques do not replace professional treatment, but rather play a supporting role and are mostly used to manage symptoms in daily life. Treatment of phobia with medication; Advantages and limitations
In some cases, especially when the anxiety is very severe or the person is in a critical situation, the doctor may prescribe the use of medication along with psychotherapy. Medications such as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines are commonly used to reduce anxiety symptoms. Although these drugs can help reduce physical reactions quickly, their long-term use without medical supervision may cause dependence, side effects, or reduced effectiveness. Phobia treatment at a young age
The occurrence of severe fears in children and teenagers is also a common issue that is often ignored. Some children may be afraid of the dark, animals, or separation from their parents, and these fears can become a real disorder if they persist. In this age group, treatment is mostly based on game-based techniques, positive reinforcement and coping skills training. Accompanying parents in treatment sessions and their emotional support play a very key role in the success of treatment. Also, early interventions can prevent the development of the disorder in the later stages of life. How to speed up the treatment of phobia? In order for the treatment process to be more effective, it is necessary to follow some points by the patient himself. The most important factor is the acceptance of the reality of the disorder and motivation for treatment. One should be aware that constant avoidance of the fear factor only makes it worse. Continuous collaboration with the therapist, recording behavioral and emotional changes in a daily journal, and following up on home exercises are among the solutions that can accelerate the healing process. Also, social support from family and friends can increase a person's sense of psychological security. Other complementary methods in the treatment of severe fears
Before focusing only on medication or talk therapy, in recent years, the use of complementary methods has increased alongside classical treatments. One of these methods is hypnotherapy or treatment using hypnosis. In this way, the therapist tries to reach the unconscious roots of fear by guiding the person's mind to the semi-conscious level and reconstructing it. Although the effectiveness of this method has not yet been proven in all forms of fear, it can be useful for some specific disorders. Also, methods such as art therapy, music therapy and meditation are also used as support methods to strengthen concentration and reduce anxiety. How long does the treatment take? The duration of treatment is different for each person and depends on several factors. Among these factors, we can mention the intensity of fear, the type of treatment chosen, the person's cooperation in the implementation of exercises, the presence of concurrent disorders such as depression or generalized anxiety disorder, and the level of social support. Some people find significant improvement in just a few sessions of CBT, while for others the treatment process may take several months. What is important is continuous follow-up and adherence to the treatment process. Accelerating the healing process of the nervous system in Neural Neurology Clinic
At Nourali neurology clinic, we carry out the process of repairing and regulating the nervous system in a targeted and precise manner by using scientific protocols, modern technologies and a team of neurologists. Our services are designed to accelerate the healing process of nervous disorders, anxiety, concentration disorders, chronic headaches and stroke prevention.
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