al-world setting. A person who is afraid of enclosed spaces (claustrophobia), for example, might set a goal of riding alone in an elevator without panicking. Exposure therapy must be performed at an appropriate pace to avoid overwhelming the patient.
- Psychiatric medications: Antidepressants in the SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) category have been used to treat specific phobias and other anxiety disorders. Benzodiazepine drugs may be prescribed on an as-needed basis for individuals whose anxiety attacks are limited to specific situations. However, because benzodiazepines have a high potential for dependence and abuse, their use must be carefully controlled.
- Relaxation techniques: Guided meditation, yoga, exercise therapy, music and art therapy, and massage therapy are a few of the relaxing practices that can help reduce stress and minimize anxiety symptoms in people with specific phobias.
If you or a loved one have a drug or alcohol addiction and a co-occurring phobia, The Recovery Village can help. To learn more about our dual diagnosis care, call The Recovery Village today and speak with a representative.
Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.