Phobias and their management

Abstract

Disabling phobias and phobia like compulsive rituals are surprisingly common in the general population, though only a minority ask for help. Behavioural treatment (exposure) and antidepressants are the most helpful approaches. Most patients can help themselves if they use a self exposure approach systematically under the guidance of a clinician. The method seems well suited for use by general practitioners. Antidepressants are a useful adjuvant, not a substitute, for exposure when there is evidence of depression complicating the phobias or rituals. © 1987, British Medical Journal Publishing Group. All rights reserved.