Condition
Pediatric Specific Phobias
Key Points About Phobias in Children
- A phobia is an excessive fear of an object or situation. It lasts for at least six months.
- Common phobias are a fear of animals, insects, blood, heights or flying.
- Some things that may put a child at risk for a phobia include shyness, a traumatic event in early childhood or mental health issues in family members.
- Symptoms include increased heart rate, sweating, shaking, a feeling of choking and upset stomach.
- A mental health provider can diagnose a phobia.
- Treatment may include therapy and medicines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are specific phobias?
What causes phobias in a child?
What are the symptoms of specific phobias in children?
How are specific phobias diagnosed in children?
How are specific phobias treated in a child?
How can I help prevent phobias in my child?
How can I help my child live with phobias?
![A sad teenage girl looking outside the window.](https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/cnh-e6162ccc/media/cnhs-site/cnhs-site-x-do-not-delete/images/stock-photos/sad-teenaged-girl.jpg?h=533&iar=0&w=800)
Anxiety Treatment at Children's National Hospital
The Anxiety Disorders Program is a specialized treatment clinic devoted to carefully assessing and effectively treating a wide range of anxiety disorders common among children and adolescents. Discover more about the treatments we offer.
![A sad teenage girl looking outside the window.](https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/cnh-e6162ccc/media/cnhs-site/cnhs-site-x-do-not-delete/images/stock-photos/sad-teenaged-girl.jpg?h=533&iar=0&w=800)
Meet the Providers Who Treat Specific Phobias
Departments that Treat Specific Phobias
![Girl looking out the window](/-/media/cnhs-site/images/0-brand-images/kids/girl-looking-out-window.jpg)
Anxiety Disorders Program
The Anxiety Disorders Program at Children's National Hospital is a specialized treatment clinic devoted to carefully assessing and effectively treating a wide range of anxiety disorders common among children and adolescents.