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I have a moderate phobia of spiders, and at times I think I ...

Sent to Health Experts May 27, 2006 11:20 p.m.

I have a moderate phobia of spiders, and at times I think I see spiders when they actually aren't there. Sometimes when this happens, it goes away almost immediately, however there are other times when I become obsessed with looking for them (I'll grab a flashlight and search all the dark corners and shadows). I'd like to know what I can do to cope with this, and I also wonder why I don't always have such extreme reactions. Thanks

Optional Information:
Female , Age: 23

Already Tried:
Breathing exercises, calling a friend, reasoning logically with myself and reminding myself that I am safe.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $15

Answer
May 27, 2006 11:30 p.m. (9 minutes and 33 seconds later)

ACCEPTED

You may want to make an appointment with a psychiatrist to treat not only your Arachnophobia, but the slight OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) thact accompanies it. You can discuss if a course of medication is appropriate or just "talk-out" your fear with a professional equopped to help you. Afterwards, the psychiatrist may refer you to a psychologist to continue counseling related to your phobia.

I undertand what you are experiencing as my husband suffered from the same problem, nut has since learned to overcome it via a course of psychotherapy.

http://www.phobiascured.com/arachnophobia.htm

__________________

Deborah -- Nurse (RN) -- 98% Positive Feedback on 2319 Health Accepts
Registered NP - Multispeciality

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