Question 1

what is claustrophobia?

Accepted Answer

Specific phobia: Specific phobias. A phobia is an overwhelming and unreasonable fear of an object or situation that poses little real danger. One type of specific phobia is a fear of enclosed spaces (claustrophobia).

Question 2

what causes claustrophobia?

Accepted Answer

Being enclosed: Claustraphobia is a fear of being enclosed usually is small places. Classical conditioning theory helps explain. It is likely you had a prior experience of being enclosed in a small place such as a closet, elevator, etc. That elicited an intense fear response. As such, this fear response reoccurs whenever you feel trapped or in any enclosed space. Claustraphobia is usually easily treated.

Question 3

can claustrophobia be turned off?

Accepted Answer

YES!: Treatment for claustrophobia can be very successful... It usually involves psychotherapy & medication.

Question 4

how does claustrophobia first develop?

Accepted Answer

Claustrophobia: Exact cause is unknown but theories are;
1. Classical conditioning from earlier traumatic experiences.
2. Amygdala (structure in brain for fight-flight response) is malfunctioning.
3. Genetic predisposition.

Question 5

how can i quickly cure claustrophobia?

Accepted Answer

Probably the best: Way is with a little help. I encourage you to find a clinical psychologist in your area that does exposure therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy.  Take care.

Question 6

is there any way to cure my claustrophobia?

Accepted Answer

Yes: See a cognitive behavioral therapist. They will help you by teaching you how to manage the physical feelings you get in enclosed spaces and teach you how to think in a more accurate, realistic, and helpful way about being in tight spaces. They will also teach you how to use these skills at different phases like just thinking about an enclosed space all the way to being in one.

Question 7

is claustrophobia a symptom of regression!?

Accepted Answer

Phobias: Phobias are persistent fears of objects/situations, & are part of anxiety. Regression is going back to previous state.

Question 8

are there different types of claustrophobia?

Accepted Answer

Claustrophobia: May be inherited (uncommon) , be due to an abnormality of / or small amygdala, or be a result of classical conditioning (bad experience) . Fear of enclosed spaces or the sensation of being unable to breath may constitute two overlapping clinical types. Fight or fight responses initiated by the amygdala constitutes a current active area of clinical research.  Good question !

Question 9

how can i help my claustrophobia using meds?

Accepted Answer

Behavior therapy: This is a phobia and cognitive therapy with antianxiety medicines can help. It is done by many psychiatrists. Sometimes antidepressants are used as well for this condition.

Question 10

could you tell me ways to deal with claustrophobia?

Accepted Answer

Consider hypnosis: Consider hypnosis and or progressive desensitization to overcome your phobia. Both techniques can cure you of the phobia. Find a psychologist who can teach you these simple interventions. Sometimes additional psychotherapy may be needed if the phobia is connected to a traumatic event. Let us know how you do!

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