This fear can causeanxietywhen encountering or thinking about a large object or something related to it.
A specific phobia is an irrational, persistent fear of an object or situation that can lead topanic attacks.
It can interfere with daily life, including work and relationships.
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Fortunately, like most phobias, megalophobia is treatable and manageable with coping strategies.
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What Is Megalophobia?
Megalophobia is an extreme and lasting fear of large objects or vast spaces.
People with megalophobia experience anxiety or panic attacks when they encounter something large or vast.
Megalophobia triggers vary between people, but common ones include:
Like all phobias, megalophobia is uncontrollable.
A person with this disorder may have no symptoms until they encounter a large object.
At this point, they may be overcome with symptoms of anxiety andstress.
How Common Is Megalophobia?
We do know that phobias are common, affecting about 19 million people in the United States.
Most phobias develop between ages 15 to 20.
This avoidance can take many forms.
Sometimes, a phobia is associated with atraumatic eventthat occurred with the object feared.
Some people develop phobias from learned behavior or responses from early life experiences or watching caregiver responses.
Specific phobias often run in families.
The criteria include:
Your provider may also inquire about your family and medical history.
They may ask questions to gauge your fear of the large object and the physical symptoms you experience.
Treatment
Phobias respond well to treatment.
It works by helping the person face a fear instead of avoiding it.
Medications:In some cases, a person with megalophobia may benefit from medications to manage anxiety symptoms.
Commonly prescribed medications includeselective serotonin reuptake inhibitors(SSRIs) andbenzodiazepines.
Medications are typically used alongside CBT or ERP therapy.
Outlook
Phobias in children are often temporary and resolve within a few months.
Megalophobia can significantly impact daily life and relationships, sometimes making it difficult to fully engage in activities.
Even with treatment, megalophobia may not disappear entirely.
Although phobias may feel insurmountable, there is treatment available that is very effective for managing them.
You may also find coping mechanisms like breathing techniques and support groups helpful.
Medicover Hospitals.Megalophobia: Fear of giants.
Mass General Brigham McLean.Understanding fear, anxiety, and phobias.
