Produced by Lalia Gilmore-Madriguera for Connecticut Public Television
Over
25 million adult Americans will be affected by a panic attack or phobia at some
time in their lives. In this film, eight courageous people are profiled as they
struggle to conquer their paralyzing fears through psychotherapy, behavior modification,
acupuncture and homeopathy.
Men with phobias have additional stress because they are "raised to be macho," says Andrew, who has an intense fear of elevators that made working in New York difficult. He is in a behavior modification self-help program. Helen is involved in "fearful fliers" class which uses relaxation techniques, nutrition and simulated flight, culminating in an actual flight.
Amy has lived with agoraphobia since the third grade. She is treated with psychotherapy and medication. The medicine suppresses the symptoms, therapy helps her return to normal life.
Julio, a Ph.D. candidate is treated with homeopathic medicine for his overwhelming fear of cancer and death. This has nearly cured his phobia. Lynn, who suffered from panic attacks for twelve years is getting relief from acupuncture. Marcy Goldstein, M.D., explains that, "Energy balancing is basically what acupuncture is... like homeopathy it works on bringing the patient into balance... and stimulates the immune system."
American Psychological Association, 1994
New England EMMY, Outstanding Information Special, 1992
60 min. Video or DVD. Sale $195. Video rental $75. Producer is available to speak with the film and also to lecture on Phobias
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