Typically, when we talk about anxiety in the context of therapy, the focus is one generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and similar challenges. We do not see nearly as many patients about phobias. One of the reasons for this is that, while phobias can be severe and cause immense distress, they are also typically not something that comes up that often.
For example, if you have a powerful fear of snakes, but you only encounter a situation where snakes are a risk once or twice a year, then the remaining 364 days are likely not as problematic. It becomes easy to ignore treating the phobia.
But, at some point, you may need to ask yourself: do I want my kids to have the same fear?
Passing Down Phobias
Our children can sense our emotions. They model themselves after what they see from us. As a result, when we display our fears and anxiety to them, they become more likely to believe that whatever we fear is something they should fear as well.
Fearing things like snakes, which we may come across very rarely, is still a problem. Our children are learning how to process the world, and a fear of snakes can not only translate to a significant fear of snakes as an adult, but also a fear of other creatures that they may come across more often.
But not all fears are also as rare. Fearing spiders, for example, can cause immense distress and are encountered much more often. Fearing dogs or heights or planes can be a problem as well. As our children pick up on these fears, they also begin to see the world as a scarier place.
Addressing Phobias for Yourself and Your Child
Phobias are something worthy of treatment, even if you do not encounter the source of the phobia that often. That is because phobias cause significant distress when they occur, and – even if you do not realize it – may be affecting your decisions and choices in life.
But it’s also something you should treat for your children as well. When you have more confidence and less anxiety, your children become more likely to avoid those challenges as well.
At Long Island Psychology, we have therapists for adults and children, and can provide support for those that are struggling with anxiety, phobias, or other similar problems. If you would like to learn more about our mental health approach, or you’re ready to get started, please contact Long Island Psychology, today.
