Phobias affect people of all ages, from all walks of life, and in every part of the country. They are the most common psychiatric illness among women of all ages and are the second most common illness among men older than 25. Symptoms Phobias can interfere with your ability to work, socialize, and go about a daily routine. They may focus on something as common as germs, or they may arise whenever you venture from home. A phobia that interferes with daily living can create extreme disability and should be treated.
Phobias are emotional and physical reactions to feared objects or situations.
Categories of Phobias Phobias are divided into categories according to the cause of the reaction and avoidance. Agoraphobia Agoraphobia is the fear of being alone in any place or situation from which it seems escape would be difficult or help unavailable should the need arise. People with agoraphobia avoid being on busy streets or in crowded stores, theaters, or churches. Some people with agoraphobia become so disabled they literally will not leave their homes. If they do, they do so only with great distress or when accompanied by a friend or family member.