I have a cat phobia.

by Heather
(U K)

I am 44 years old and have had a cat phobia for as long as i can remember, i have 4 children and 2 grandchildren. I walk no where as i am constantly scanning for cats and run away and hide if i see one, I go all hot, sweaty, have palpitations, cramp pains in my stomach and feel sick.

Recently my husband bought an ornament of a cat into the house and i panicked and had a panic attack i cry with fear and horror when i see one and if there are any in the street then i can't go out my family are very understanding but i have got to the stage where i feel i need to do something.

I am seeing a clinical psychiatrist who is helping me to overcome my phobia using CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), i am really hoping that he will be able to turn my life around and help me as i feel really torn with my family having cats in their homes which means i never go to visit them.