How will GP react to this

[Steben]

I know this sounds utterly pathetic but I want to make an appt to talk to the doctor about my severe anxiety over spiders. It is beyond a phobia and at this time of year it is just horrendous - DH works away mon-fri (when he is around and can deal with them I can cope) and I am panic stricken in an evening. I am self medicating with alcohol which isn't great to take the edge off. I realise this sounds ludicrous but it is seriously affecting my life.

Would a GP take this seriously? What options would I have? I have taken Valium for anxiety over flying - would they prescribe something like this?

[micah]

I think if it's affecting your ability to function day to day like you describe, then you are absolutely right to see a GP.

Not sure about your options, but I would think counselling/therapy and/or medication.

Don't some zoo's and wildlife centres run spider courses, much like the flying ones? Have a look into those...

[Steben]

I had hypnotherapy years ago, didn't work (in fact made it worse) - I am going to make an appt tomorrow.

[BasketzatDawn]

A good gp (which most are of course) would take this seriously. You might find CBT helps. Hopefully on the NHS - though looong waiting lists for that.

[MrsMinton]

There is an online course called Fear Fighter that is CBT for anxiety and phobias. You can have it on prescription or pay privately. I'm happy to explain more or link you if you want to Pm me.

[SideOfFoot]

Yes absolutely, see your gp, I think you will probably be referred to a clinical psychologist, and phobias are just the type of thing a clinical psychologist deals with.

I was going to suggest hypnosis but see you tried that and it didn't work. I helped my phobia (not spiders btw) with help from a hypnotherapist. Although I'm not madly keen on the things I had a phobia of, even now, at least I can act in a rational way, around them nowadays.

I sympathise, I think a lot of people who say they have a phobia just don't like something. Sounds like you have a proper phobia, I did too. It does take over your life doesn't it.

Good luck with your gp.