Arachnophobia – The Fear of Spiders
WouterArachnophobia, or the fear of spiders, is a mental condition. It causes people to have an intense anxious reaction whenever they see or hear about a spider.
Arachnophobia can be a treatable disorder, if a patient is willing to take the steps necessary. Many therapists have experience dealing with phobias, and can help a patient overcome his or her arachnophobia.
If you suffer from arachnophobia, seek help immediately. This is the best way to avoid the severe symptoms that arachnophobia can bring.
To reduce your arachnophobia, make lifestyle changes. This may include eating healthy, getting enough exercise, and practicing relaxation techniques.
Behavioral therapy is also helpful. One technique, known as exposure therapy, breaks the association between spiders and fear. This helps patients realize that they are safe despite their phobia.
Another technique, called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), helps a person gain insight into his or her feelings and behaviors. It can be used in individual or group sessions.
Certain medications, such as benzodiazepines, are also effective for treating arachnophobia. The patient must use these drugs sparingly, though. Other options include beta blockers, tranquilizers, and sedatives.
The arachnophobic patient must work on overcoming his or her phobia by practicing the techniques learned in therapy. This may include positive reaffirmations, autogenic training, and meditation.
Often, the fear of spiders is linked to a traumatic experience. This event may have occurred in childhood. In a study conducted at the University of Maastricht, kids with arachnophobia ranked kidnapping as the top fear they encountered.
