Phobia
Short definition
A phobia is an intense, persistent fear out of proportion to a specific object or situation, such as heights, flying, animals or needles, which usually leads to avoidance.
In plain language
The person often recognises that the fear is excessive but cannot control it, and organises their life to avoid what they fear. In healthcare, fear of needles or blood can lead people to miss tests or vaccinations. Exposure therapy, in real life or in virtual reality, is the most studied approach.