Phobias - Kidswell Health

What are phobias?

Phobias are intense, overwhelming fears of specific objects, situations, or experiences. While it’s common for children to have fears as they grow, a phobia is different – it is persistent, excessive, and can interfere with a child’s everyday life. These fears may seem irrational to others, but for the child, the anxiety is very real and distressing. Without support, phobias can lead to avoidance of activities and affect school, friendships, or family life. Examples of phobias include emetaphobia (fear of vomiting) and needle phobia.

What are the signs of phobias in children?

Phobias often involve a combination of emotional, physical, and behavioural responses. The fear may be triggered by seeing, thinking about, or anticipating the feared object or situation.

Emotional Symptoms

Intense fear or panic when faced with the feared situation or object
High levels of distress even when simply thinking about it
Difficulty calming down, even with reassurance
Fear that feels out of proportion to the actual threat

Physical Symptoms

Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
Shortness of breath or tightness in the chest
Sweating, shaking, or feeling faint
Nausea, stomach aches, or dizziness

Behavioural Symptoms

Avoiding places, activities, or situations related to the fear (e.g., avoiding parks due to a fear of dogs)
Crying, freezing, clinging to parents, or having tantrums when exposed to the feared trigger
Difficulty focusing at school or engaging socially due to worry or anticipation of the fear

Common types of phobias in children and teenagers

Phobias can develop around almost anything, but some are more common during childhood and adolescence:

Animal Phobias – e.g., dogs, spiders, insects
Situational Phobias – e.g., heights, flying, enclosed spaces (like lifts)
Medical Phobias – e.g., fear of needles, doctors, or medical procedures
Environmental Phobias – e.g., storms, water, or the dark
Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder) – fear of being embarrassed or judged by others, especially in group settings

How are phobias diagnosed in children?

Phobias are usually diagnosed based on a child’s symptoms and behaviours. A paediatrician or mental health professional may:

Discuss the child’s experiences with them and their caregivers
Explore how the fear affects daily life, routines, or social functioning
Use standardised questionnaires or screening tools
It’s important to distinguish a phobia from a passing fear, which many children outgrow naturally.

How are phobias in children treated?

Phobias are treatable, and early support can make a big difference. Treatment usually includes:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
A proven therapy that helps children understand their fear and develop coping strategies. CBT may involve:

Cognitive restructuring – learning to challenge and reframe anxious thoughts
Gradual exposure therapy – safely and slowly introducing the feared object or situation to reduce avoidance and build confidence

Relaxation Techniques
Breathing exercises, mindfulness, and progressive muscle relaxation can help manage physical symptoms of anxiety.

Parental Support
Understanding the child’s phobia, offering calm reassurance, and encouraging small, manageable steps toward facing fears can support recovery.

If the phobia is significantly interfering with daily life, professional support from a child psychologist or therapist is strongly recommended.

How we can help

At Kidswell Health, we have an experienced team of child psychologists and therapists who specialise in helping children overcome phobias and anxiety-related challenges. We offer comprehensive assessments, evidence-based therapies such as CBT and exposure strategies, and ongoing support — all under one roof.

Additional resources & crisis support

For more information or guidance, these resources provide useful support for families and young people:

If your child is in crisis or at risk of harm, please seek urgent help through emergency services or Mind’s crisis support guide.

Phobia Treatment for Children

What are phobias?

What are the signs of phobias in children?

Common types of phobias in children and teenagers

How are phobias diagnosed in children?

How are phobias in children treated?

How we can help

Additional resources & crisis support

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