Arachnophobia
The term arachnophobia come from the Greek words for spider (arachne) and fear (phobos). This condition is characterized by a persistent and abnormal fear of spiders, or other arachnids such as scorpions. Those who suffer from this phobia become anxious when they are in an area where spiders may be present or where there is evidence that spiders are in the area.
When someone suffering from arachnophobia encounters a spider or other arachnid, he or she may have a panic attack. In severe cases, the person suffering from the phobia may have this reaction when shown a picture or drawing of a spider. If you suffer from arachnophobia, you are not alone. This is one of the most common phobias and it is estimated that more than 50% of women and almost 20% of men suffer from this disorder.
A panic attack can be almost as frightening as encountering a spider if you have this condition. When a panic attack strikes, you may feel like something horrible is about to happen or that you are about to die. Heart rate increases and you may tremble or sweat. Many hyperventilate and experience shortness of breath. Chills and hot flushes are not uncommon and chest pain often accompanies these symptoms. You may also feel nauseous or your stomach may cramp up. Some report that their throat tightens up and they can't swallow and you may experience the same. With severe attacks, you can feel dizzy or faint. The scariest part of this reaction to a spider is that it can come on suddenly, even when you are driving. For this reason, treatment is essential.
When looking for a treatment program that handles a spider phobia, there are certain things you should look for. A good program will:
- Stop the phobia and panic attacks once and for all
- Eliminate any fears and anxieties that contribute to the disorder
- Remove all symptoms that accompany the phobia
- Eliminate the anxiety that interferes with your everyday life
- Increase your confidence
The subconscious mechanism which creates and perpetuates anxiety is located in a portion of the brain known as the Amygdala. When you choose your program, see if it works on this area of the brain. If it does not, the chances of success go down as this mechanism will still be in play when you encounter a spider or other arachnid. One thing that you need to remember is that you are not ill. You just need to change the way your brain responds to this particular event.
An effective program will explain how to:
- Prevent a panic attack before it starts
- Stop looking for arachnids everywhere you go
- Live a full and complete life without the constant fear of encountering a spider
- Build a solid foundation where panic attacks and fear don't exist
- Start fresh without anxiety
- Get a second chance in life
- Function normally in all aspects of life
In order to overcome this fear, you may need some extra help. Look for a program that offers 24 hour assistance if you run into trouble. This will increase your chances of success and help you to over the arachnophobia once and for all.
