People display certain typical emotional and physical reactions to objects and situations they dread. The fear may be so extreme that they may not be able to perform normal tasks and may even become totally immobile.

Sometimes the mere anticipation of the phobia may also precipitate an anxiety attack.

Childhood fears are common. If left unchecked they may develop into phobias. Children as young as 5 years may develop phobias and may experience nightmares. Such phobias are more related to natural phenomenon such as lightning or thunder. Sometimes the noise of bursting crackers may upset them tremendously.

During transitional times in their lives, children show signs of fear. Going back to school to a new class after a break can trigger signs of fear and anxiety in children. With proper guidance from parents and teachers these fears usually go away after a routine sets in. However if the child continues to live in fear especially as a victim of bullying in school, the fear persists even during adult life. Social phobias are more likely to develop in schools and colleges. Phobias result in an irrational and instant response that creates anxiety when exposed to the object of fear. It is not unusual for a person to take extreme steps to avoid the object or situation that causes fear.

If faced with the object of fear, people experience panic and have the following symptoms:–

• Tachycardia or rapid heartbeat

• Sweating

• Shortness of breath

• Tingling sensation in the hands

• Nausea

• Trembling

• Desire to run away

• Depression, in some cases