What is Spectrophobia?

Spectrophobia is an intense fear of ghosts and apparitions known as specters. While most adults will admit to being a bit afraid of ghosts, people who suffer from this phobia feel that ghosts and specters are powerful black magic phantoms who can steal souls and even lives. Also known as phasomophobia, spectrophobia comes from the Greek word "spectrum," meaning apparition and "phobos" which means fear.

What Causes Spectrophobia?

A fear of ghosts is natural in young children, but the person who suffers from spectrophobia has experienced some sort of trauma during their life. Naturally, that experience is then associated with apparitions, specters and ghosts.

Perhaps the individual became terrified by a program on television or at the movies. Maybe the person affected by this phobia read a book, saw frightening pictures or witnessed another person being intensely frightened. It's even possible that the person with spectrophobia simply watched, or listened to, other people respond in an emotional, negative fashion and began to imitate their behaviors.

What Are the Symptoms of Spectrophobia?

The symptoms of spectrophobia vary and are individual. Symptoms might be as mild as feeling uncomfortable or as intense as to cause a full blown anxiety or panic attack. Other symptoms can include:

• Panting or Gasping for Breath
• Dry Mouth
• Feeling Sick
• Racing Heart
• Feeling Out of Control
• Overwhelming Fear and Anticipating Disaster

How Is Spectrophobia Diagnosed?

Typically, a person realizes that their fear is severely interfering with their ability to function. When this happens, spectrophobia is self diagnosed.

Other times, a person may seek advice from their doctor. The doctor may immediately diagnosis spectrophobia, but will more likely refer the person to a mental health professional for further evaluation and assessment. It's important to note that prior to any referral, the doctor should attempt to eliminate any possible physical reasons for the phobia.

How Is Spectrophobia Managed or Treated?

The fear of ghosts and specters can become so intense that a person becomes unable to function and live a full life. When this happens, there are a variety of ways to treat or manage spectrophobia. These can include:

• Traditional "talk" therapy that helps the person identify and learn to control their phobia.
• Self-help techniques such as the Emotional Freedom Technique.
• Hypnotherapy
• Exposure Therapy
• Support groups with others who struggle with Spectrophobia.
• Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
• In extreme cases, medication can be prescribed that helps lessen the panic and anxiety that this phobia causes.

Spectrophobia is a paralyzing, irrational fear that can stop a person from functioning. Left unchecked, this phobia can become debilitating and will interfere with every aspect of a person's life.