Claustrophobia

An irrational fear of becoming trapped in a confined space or even the anticipation of such a situation, claustrophobia is a complex phobia that can cause extreme anxiety and panic attacks.

What is it?

For a person with claustrophobia, being confined induces physical symptoms similar to those of agoraphobia (opposite). The fear also increases negative thoughts of running out of oxygen or suffering a heart attack with no chance of escape. Many individuals also experience feelings of dread and fear of fainting or losing control. Claustrophobia may be caused by
conditioning following a stressful situation that occurred in a small space. This might be traced back to childhood, when, for example, an individual was confined in a tiny room or was bullied or abused. The condition can also be triggered by unpleasant experiences at any stage of life, such as turbulence on a flight or being trapped in an elevator. The individual fears a repeat of being confined and overimagines what could happen in a small space. As a result they plan their daily activities carefully to minimize the likelihood of “becoming trapped.” Sometimes claustrophobia is
observed in other family members, which suggests a genetic vulnerability to the disorder and/or a learned associated response.

TREATMENT

❯ Cognitive behavioral therapy to reevaluate negative thoughts through exposure to the feared situation in small steps so the individual realizes that the worst fear does not occur.

❯ Anxiety management to cope with anxiety and panic by using breathing techniques, muscle relaxation, and visualization of positive outcomes.

❯ Anti-anxiety medication or antidepressants prescribed in extreme cases.