If we’re put in a situation, or with an object or animal, that we find threatening, we will become anxious and often put ourselves in a position where we avoid coming in to contact with the object of our fear.

This is known as the ‘fight or flight’ response. This is very helpful if we’re faced with something that can do real harm to us.  However, it often stops us from doing things we want to do, and being in places we would like to be.  If you’ve stopped doing something because of a fear or phobia.

Common anxieties and phobias may include:

• Social situations
• Speaking out in a group
• Meeting new people
• Shopping in busy places
• Fear of being away from home
• Driving
• Flying on aeroplanes
• Health anxieties, such as visiting the dentist or doctors
• Fear of being sick
• Animals such as birds, pets, insects

Could fears and phobias be a problem for you?

This short questionnaire will help assess whether this is causing a problem for you at this time. This will only provide part of the picture and does not replace the assessment by a healthcare professional.

If you are registered with a Newcastle GP, then you can refer yourself to our online course, designed to help you to overcome your fears. You will need to fill out the short questionnaire before you can refer yourself.