phobia

Claustrophobia

Key facts Claustrophobia is the fear of being in an enclosed space. Common situations that can trigger claustrophobia include being in lifts, tunnels, cars, planes or crowded rooms. Claustrophobia can cause intense anxiety and/or panic attacks. Panic attacks can cause overwhelming feelings of anxiety, as well as physical symptoms, such as a racing heartbeat, shortness of breath and sweating. Claustrophobia can be successfully treated with psychological therapies. This includes cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and self-exposure therapy. What is claustrophobia? Claustrophobia is a type of phobia. A phobia is an irrational or disproportionate fear of an object, activity or situation. People

Social anxiety disorder

What is social anxiety disorder? Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is a recurrent disproportionate fear of social situations, where a person fears being judged, criticised or humiliated in front of other people. Social anxiety disorder is not just being shy or nervous when in formal situations or when having to give a speech – situations where many people feel apprehensive. It happens in ordinary everyday situations, such as eating in public, meeting people, or being watched while doing something. A person may feel that they will humiliate or embarrass themselves. The fear of embarrassment and of being