Phobias and irrational fears are caused by extreme feelings of anxiety and distress. These emotions, which are often overpowering, may develop into specific fears, which ultimately create more anxiety. This unhealthy and sometimes harmful cycle can become disruptive and unmanageable. Individuals may develop an irrational fear or phobia to heights, spiders, water, darkness, flying, crowded spaces, and even blood. Reaching out to a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist to help learn healthy and positive ways to deal with anxiety, phobias, and irrational fears is both beneficial and satisfying.