If you have a phobia, it can feel like you are the only one. You are not. The fears below are among the ones specialists see most often, and every one of them is something people get help with every day.
Each link opens a free, detailed guide on our partner site Phobia Guru, with a short test to see how strong your fear is.
Fear of flying
One of the most common fears, often linked to a fear of being trapped or not being in control.
Fear of spiders
Arachnophobia is one of the most common phobias, and specific animal phobias like this often respond well to treatment.
Fear of needles
Can stop people having blood tests, vaccinations and dental work, which makes it worth tackling.
Fear of being sick
Emetophobia often affects eating, travel and family life far more than people around you realise.
Fear of heights
Acrophobia can make balconies, bridges, ladders and even escalators feel impossible.
Fear of the dentist
Many people avoid check-ups for years because of it, so dental problems can build up.
Fear of driving
Sometimes starts after an accident or a near miss, and can shrink your independence.
Fear of public speaking
Very common, and it can hold careers back more than people expect.
Fear of dogs
Can make parks, visits to friends and even walking down the street stressful.
Fear of small spaces
Claustrophobia can affect lifts, tube trains, MRI scans and crowded rooms.
Fear of birds
Often worse in cities, parks and seaside towns where birds come close.
Fear of blood
Unusual because it can make some people faint rather than run, which is worth telling any specialist about.
Do not see your fear here?
There are hundreds of named phobias. If yours is not listed, try Fear Finder, a free game that tries to guess your fear in fewer than 15 questions, or simply choose “Something else” in our intake.
Want help with your fear?
Answer three quick questions and we will match you with a phobia specialist who works in your language. You also get a free hypnosis session to help calm anxious moments.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. If your fear comes with panic attacks, low mood or anything that worries you about your health, please speak to your GP or doctor. In the UK you can call NHS 111, and in an emergency call 999.