PsycHe Finer PoinTs

• An irrational fear of an object or situation that persists, although the person may recognize it as unreasonable.
• Associated with panic level anxiety if the object, situation, or activity cannot be avoided.
• Defense mechanisms commonly used include repression and displacement.

Interventions:

1. Stay with client when anxiety is high to promote safety and security.
2. Identify the basis of the anxiety.
3. Allow the client to verbalize feelings about the anxiety-producing object or situation; frequently talking about the feared object is the first step in the desensitization process.
4. Teach relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, muscle relaxation exercises and visualization of pleasant situations.
5. Promote desensitization by gradually introducing to the feared object or situation in small doses.
6. Do not force the client to have contract with the phobic object or situation.

Source: Saunders Comprehensive Review’ Linda Anne Silvestri, MSN, RN