US Medical Term · mental-health
Phobia
Fobia
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Phobia |
| Spanish (Español) | Fobia |
| Chinese (中文) | 恐懼症 |
| Korean (한국어) | 공포증 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Chứng ám ảnh sợ hãi |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Phobia |
| Portuguese (Português) | Fobia |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | โรคกลัว |
| Japanese (日本語) | 恐怖症 |
What it means
A phobia is an intense, persistent, and excessive fear of a specific object, situation, or activity that poses little or no actual danger. Common phobias include fear of heights, flying, spiders, needles, blood, or enclosed spaces. When exposed to the feared object or situation, a person with a phobia may experience immediate anxiety, panic, or a strong urge to flee. Phobias can significantly limit daily activities and quality of life. The most effective treatment is a type of therapy called Exposure Therapy, in which a therapist gradually and safely helps you face the feared stimulus. Most people see significant improvement with targeted, brief treatment. Ask your doctor for a referral to a cognitive behavioral therapist.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I have a severe phobia of needles that prevents me from getting necessary medical care.
Tengo una fobia severa a las agujas que me impide recibir atención médica necesaria.
I would like to try exposure therapy to treat my phobia.
Me gustaría probar la terapia de exposición para tratar mi fobia.
My phobia of flying is preventing me from traveling for work — can you recommend a therapist?
Mi fobia a volar me impide viajar por trabajo — ¿puede recomendarme un terapeuta?
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
F40 Phobic anxiety disordersRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026