A phobia is a condition in which the sufferer experiences an exaggerated or unrealistic sense of danger about a situation or an object.
Some example phobias of students at University may include:
- Environmental phobias: height, darkness
- Social phobias
- Situational phobias: public speaking, travelling in a bus or car
- Agoraphobia (open or public spaces)
If you are faced with a student suffering from a phobia, then do what is in the best interest of the student and those around them if you feel comfortable dealing with them. Remain calm and talk calmly with the student. If you feel uncomfortable, then please contact a colleague or the Wellbeing team.