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Anxiety disorders
Specific phobias
Intense, disproportionate fears of a specific object or situation: flying, driving, heights, animals, blood or needles.
Common signs
- Immediate anxiety when faced with the trigger
- Active avoidance
- Distress when anticipating the situation
- Recognising that the fear is excessive
Having some of these signs doesn't mean you have the disorder: only a professional can make a diagnosis.
Why does it happen?
They can arise after a negative experience, from learning by watching others or from predisposition.
How is it diagnosed?
Assessment of the fear, the avoidance and how much it limits life.
Treatment
Gradual exposure is the most effective treatment and usually works within a few sessions.
We're here for you at Clínica Vivaldi
Registered psychologists at Calle Chiva 25 (Valencia) and online across Spain. First appointment with no waiting list; we work with psychiatry and nutrition when needed.
Educational content based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment. Reviewed by the Clínica Vivaldi team, November 2026.