What is a phobia and how can they be treated?

Phobias are classed as an anxiety disorder and categorised into either simple phobias (e.g. animals, flying, dentists) or complex phobias (more deep-rooted e.g. agoraphobia or social phobia).

Self Help Services offer specific cCBT (Computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) programmes to assist in overcoming phobias.

Self-help books and CDs are available to help with phobias through the ‘Books on Prescription’ service available at your local library.

Further information about phobias can also be found online via Triumph Over Phobia, Mind and The NHS Website .

For local sources of support see Think Wellbeing St Helens.