Zemmiphobia

Zemmiphobia is defined as fear of the great mole rat. This naturally leads us to the next question, "just who or what is the great mole rat?"

The Mole Rat is a species of naked rats that look and behave like moles. They are native to parts of Africa and have large, protruding front teeth that they use to dig tunnels. Mole rats live underground in colonies of 80 to 300 rats. Within each colony, there is one breeding female and three to four breeding males. All other rats are workers or soldiers.

The origin of the word zemmiphobia is unknown. However, the "great" of the great mole rat may be a reference to the breeding male.

Zemmiphobia is a rather unusual and relatively unknown phobia. However, for the person suffering from this phobia, the fear is real and immobilizing.

What Causes Zemmiphobia?

Most commonly, the person affected by zemmiphobia, has experienced a traumatic event that is associated with rats and/or moles. They would then, naturally and automatically, associate any rat or mole with a threat to themselves.

Perhaps zemmiphobia is caused by the bizarre appearance of the rat. The mole rat is a bald, beady-eyed, sightless rodent with huge teeth. Of course, Hollywood and the media could also be partially responsible for a person developing this phobia.

What Are the Symptoms of Zemmiphobia?

The symptoms of zemmiphobia vary. They can range from feeling a mild discomfort to feeling a crippling fear when confronted with a rat or mole. Other symptoms can include:

• Panting or gasping for breath.
• A dry mouth.
• Feeling sick.
• A racing heart.
• Feeling out of control.
• Feelings of being trapped and unable to escape.
• A feeling of impending disaster.
• Anxiety or panic attack.

How Is Zemmiphobia Diagnosed?

Often, the person who suffers from zemmiphobia makes the diagnosis themselves. They realize that their phobia is irrational and that it interferes with their daily routine and functioning.

An individual affected by this phobia may speak to their doctor. Typically, the doctor will then refer the person to a mental health professional for further evaluation.

How Is Zemmiphobia Treated or Managed?

There are a variety of methods to treat or manage zemmiphobia. These include:

• Therapy that helps the person identify the source of their fear and teaches them how to control their anxiety.
• Self-help methods such as the Emotional Freedom Technique.
• Hypnotherapy
• Support groups with others affected by zemmiphobia.
• Relaxation techniques
• In severe cases, medication can be prescribed that will lessen the panic and anxiety this phobia causes.

Zemmiphobia is an irrational and intense fear of the great mole rat. Left unchecked, this phobia can become so terrifying that the person is completely unable to function.