Hemophobiais a psychological disorder characterized by an extreme fear ofblood.
This article explains what hemophobia is and what causes it.
Verywell / Danie Drankwalter
What Is Hemophobia?
Verywell / Danie Drankwalter
Hemophobia, or blood phobia, causes an irrational fear of seeing blood.
Specific phobias are divided into five categories, and blood phobia falls within the category of blood-injection-injury pop in.
But for some people, even the thought of blood can make them feel panicked or anxious.
This is referred to as anticipatory anxiety.
Such situations may cause the child to cry, throw tantrums, or cling to their parent or caregiver.
These people may also go to great lengths to avoid blood or situations that involve blood.
This approach is not advised, as avoidance of blood may make a blood phobia worse.
Past Experiences
Some people may develop a phobia of blood after a past traumatic experience.
Specific phobias like hemophobia can be treated through desensitization orexposure therapy.
These exposure techniques can be performed with the help of a professional.
Other treatment options includepsychotherapy, counseling, andcognitive behavioral therapy.
Typically, medication is not used to treat phobias.
In some cases, it may be prescribed to help with anxiety.
Medications that may be prescribed in this context includebeta-blockers, benzodiazepines, and antidepressants.
Challenge Negative Thoughts
Negative thoughts associated with a specific phobia can bring on symptoms of anxiety.
By challenging these negative thoughts, those with hemophobia may better cope with their fears.
Using relaxation techniques like muscle relaxation, meditation, and deep breathing may help reduce feelings of anxiety.
Gradual exposure to blood or situations that involve blood may help a person desensitize their irrational fear.
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