Claustrophobia: why it arises and how to overcome it

The claustrophobia It is one of the most common phobias, which, although it is not a panic condition, the experimentation of its signals generates anxiety and fear. Being locked in a room with no windows, getting stuck in an elevator, or driving on a congested highway can all be triggers for your symptoms, which can be mild or severe.

Symptoms appear after a trigger, depending on the severity of the phobia, which may include sweating, shivering, hot flashes, anxiety, shortness of breath, hyperventilation, nausea, fast heartbeat, dizziness, and feeling fearful. According to specialists, for some people, claustrophobia can go away on its own, but it may also require therapy to control and adapt to its symptoms.

Being in a small room with no windows, attending a large concert, traveling in a small vehicle, and riding a crowded elevator are all called “triggers,” but they are not the only alarming factors. A 2011 study found that people with larger “close” spaces around their bodies are more likely to feel claustrophobic when that circle is threatened by someone getting too close.

Although little is known about the causes, people usually develop claustrophobia during childhood, or in their teens, and it is estimated that environmental factors may play an important part. In addition, the probability of developing the phobia is taken into account if there is a family history. some specialists link condition to amygdala dysfunctionwhich is the part of the brain that controls the way we process fear.

How the irrational fear of small or crowded places is triggered.

Claustrophobia is treatable and, according to specialists, patients can recover from the condition. Different types of counseling can help overcome fear and control triggers, but it must be agreed in advance with the specialist what type of therapy would work best.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

A cognitive behavioral therapist will teach you how to control and alter negative thoughts that arise from situations that trigger claustrophobia. By learning to change your thoughts, you can learn to transform your reaction to different situations.

Therapy

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)

Rational emotive behavior therapy is an action-oriented form of cognitive behavior therapy that focuses on the present. CBT focuses on unhealthy attitudes, emotions, and behaviors and includes challenging irrational beliefs to help people develop realistic, healthy alternatives.

relaxation and visualization

Therapists will offer different relaxation and visualization techniques to use when the person is in a claustrophobic situation. Techniques can include exercises such as counting down from 10 or imagining a safe space. These techniques can help calm and relieve panic.

Many people with claustrophobia avoid spaces that trigger the condition. However, that may not be a good solution, in the long run, because eventually they may find themselves in a foregone situation. Given that, it is suggested to breathe slowly while counting to three with each breath and focus on something safe, such as the time that passes on a clock.

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