What is is a phobia? Basically explained, it is an irrational fear or concern of certain objects
, situations or people. It can take many forms, not all of which seem rational to others. Claustrophobia tends to be the most universally recognized of all phobias. What causes phobias however is still a bit of a medical mystery.
Years of study have not found the answer to this question, but has showed us a few useful pieces of information. Through tests and studies we have come to the conclusion that genetics, brain chemicals and traumatic events probably all play a role in determining what phobias a person develops.
There also appears to be a connection between your fears and those that your parents suffer from. An even more interesting assumption is that children often "learn" there phobias from their caregivers by watching reactions to certain situations while growing up.
Studies have noted some risk factors that can be considered in order to possible predict phobias in people in the future. You may be surprised at what they are.
Age seems to play a major role in the manifestation of phobias. Social disorders occur most often during childhood and almost never after the age of 25. Situational phobias like a fear of bridges, elevators or flying tend to show themselves in a person's mid-20's.
Your sex can also be a risk factor in developing phobias. Women are said to be more likely to suffer from social phobias while it is apparent that men mask their anxiety more effectively then women. Which can mean that the symptoms build up for men unnoticed until it's too late.
No matter what phobias you suffer from their is professional help out there for you. Please do not turn to drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with your situation. The first step to being free from that fear is in reaching out for help and accepting what is offered to you. Each person will require unique treatment.