What’s the Difference Between a Fear vs. a Phobia?

Fear is an inevitable part of life. But for some people, fear of specific situations can become so overwhelming and debilitating that it turns into a phobia. 

In this post, we’ll discuss the difference between fear and phobia. We’ll also cover the different types of phobias, their causes, and treatment options that can help provide peace of mind. 

Is there a difference between fear and phobia?

Yes. Although fears and phobias are closely related, they have key differences as well. 

Fear is a natural emotional reaction when you believe there is a real and imminent danger. For instance, it makes sense to become scared in the midst of a lightning storm. In fact, this fear prepares you to take cover and gather emergency supplies. Your fear lasts until the storm is over. 

A phobia is a type of anxiety disorder. Phobias trigger overwhelming anxiety even when it’s clear you aren’t in danger. For example, just seeing a spider on TV can make you very anxious if you have arachnophobia. 

When does fear become a phobia?

Fear may be a phobia when you experience overwhelming anxiety that doesn’t match your true level of danger. When you have a phobia, just thinking about your fear can trigger sudden and intense anxiety. 

A phobia usually causes fear of a specific object or situation. It may also lead you to spend a lot of time worrying if you’re going to run into your fear. You might go out of your way to avoid anywhere you might encounter it, even if this limits your life.

For example, someone living with a flight phobia may experience debilitating anxiety when they board a plane. As a result, they may choose to only travel within driving distance. This avoidance can lead to various problems, such as not being able to perform work activities or see family who live far away.  

In general, phobias can cause symptoms like: 

• Sweating

• Trembling

• Nausea and vomiting

• Feeling like you’re losing control or dying 

• A need to use the restroom

• Chest pain

• Difficulty breathing

• Rapid heartbeat

• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy 

• Butterflies in the stomach

• Panic attacks

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What are the types of phobias?

There are different types of phobias. In this post we will focus on specific phobias. A specific phobia is an ongoing fear of a certain object or situation. Up to 15% of people worldwide have a specific phobia. 

Below are some of the most common types:

• Animals, such as a fear of snakes, dogs, or spiders

• Environmental, such as fear of heights, water, or darkness 

• Situational, such as a fear of going to the dentist or flying

• Bodily, such as a fear of blood or needles 

What causes phobias?

We don’t yet know the exact cause of phobias. But researchers say certain factors may play a role. These factors can include: 

• Genetics: Phobias may have a genetic link. Studies show that if you have a family member who has a phobia, you may be at a higher risk for developing one, too. 

• Brain function: Changes in brain activity may contribute to phobias. For example, one review concluded that people with a phobia of small animals had increased brain activity in their left amygdala and insular cortex. These areas of the brain both become more active when you experience fear. 

• Past experiences: A phobia may develop after a real-life, distressing event you had in the past. For instance, if you were bitten by a dog, you may develop a phobia of dogs.

• Learned behaviors: A phobia can be learned, depending on your environment. For example, maybe as a child, you saw your sibling get very anxious when entering elevators. This may cause you to develop a similar fear.  

How do you treat a phobia?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with exposure is the first-choice treatment for phobias. CBT helps you identify how your thoughts and feelings influence your actions. You’ll also do repeated exposures related to your phobia to practice new ways of responding to fear. 

The exposure part of therapy can vary in technique. For example, imaginal exposure involves learning how to cope with thoughts of the feared object or situation. This differs from direct exposure, such as touching a feared animal or speaking in public (if you’re afraid of public speaking). 

Exposure-based therapy is successful in up to 90% of people who use it consistently. Depending on the complexity of your phobia, exposure therapy may be combined with other therapies.

Medications for phobias

Medications are not usually recommended for specific phobias. Research shows that they aren’t particularly helpful. However, if your phobia is severe, your healthcare provider may recommend medications. Your healthcare provider will review your options.

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Written by:

Kara-Marie Hall, RN, BSN, CCRN

Kara-Marie Hall, RN, BSN, CCRN, is a registered nurse who specializes in writing health content that connects with everyone — no matter where they are in their health journey. She has over 10 years of clinical experience in a variety of specialties, including critical care, surgery, and hospice.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

Sophie Vergnaud, MD

Sophie Vergnaud, MD, is the Senior Medical Director for GoodRx Health. A pulmonologist and hospitalist, she practiced and taught clinical medicine at hospitals in London for a decade before entering a career in health education and technology.

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