Possibly you already know that a phobia is an irrational, often obsessive and persistent fear of a situation, place, object or experience which are not genuinely threatening.
Also that the "irrationality" of a phobia is often recognised and understood by those who suffer from it,– but that doesn't help.
The intensity of the emotions aroused can range from mild to extreme. This can also brings with it a feeling of loss of control.
Frequently phobias impose severe limitations on people's lives; limitations on what a person feels able to do, where they can go. In their effort to cope, people with phobias will often develop avoidance techniques.
Does any of this sound familiar? Do you have a phobia which is causing you problems?