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Warning-sign checks

Phobia - simple/specific: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, new or severe chest pain, signs of a serious allergic reaction, or another immediate medical danger.

    Do not assume that every intense physical symptom is caused by a phobia.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical assessment if you faint for the first time, faint without a clear trigger, become injured during a faint, or have physical symptoms that are new or do not follow your usual fear pattern.

    Get urgent mental health help if distress leads to thoughts of harming yourself or if you feel unable to stay safe.

    A specific phobia is not usually an emergency, but an immediate safety risk is.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if fear has lasted for several months, is causing significant distress, or is limiting healthcare, work, education, relationships, or travel.

    Help is also appropriate if avoidance is growing or if you are using alcohol, sedatives, or other substances to cope.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Phobia - simple/specific. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.