A phobia is an excessive and (1) fear reaction. If you have a phobia, you may experience a deep sense of (2) or panic when you encounter the source of your fear. The fear can be of a certain place, situation, or object. Unlike general (3) disorders, a phobia is usually connected to something (4) . The impact of a phobia can range from (5) to severely disabling. People with phobias often realize their fear is irrational, but they’re unable to do anything about it. Such fears can (6) with work, school, and personal relationships. An estimated 19 million Americans have a phobia that causes (7) in some area of their lives.