According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 10% of the US population meet diagnostic criteria for a specific phobia. Specific, meaning that it applies to a specific trigger, situation, or event. One of the more common specific phobias involve fear of blood, illness, and injury. Relatedly, some people have intense fear of surgical procedures. This is another instance where the fear of bodily harm can help us in 99.9% of situations where we generally want to stay safe and alive and avoid things that cause us to bleed or become disfigured, or pained. However, if fear of health related matters is getting in the way of going to the doctor, avoiding asking uncomfortable medical questions, getting your yearly flu shot or dental cleaning, or otherwise avoiding medical care or medical settings, you might be able to benefit from exposure and other therapies. Confronting these issues head on with manageable levels of anxiety can help you be the healthiest you possible! And healthy bodies and healthy minds go together, so two in one!