Fear of cotton balls is also known assidonglobophobia.
Symptoms of a specific phobia begin when the fear is triggered and danger is perceived.
A clear danger doesn’t necessarily have to be present.
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It is the perception of danger that matters.
The body reacts to prepare the body to face the danger.
Someone who has a fear of cotton balls may not want to walk past them in a store.
They may avoid cotton swabs even at the doctor’s office.
Opening medicine or vitamin bottles may be stressful because of the cotton stuffed inside.
Some people with this phobia may also fear the plastic or foam materials used to pack fragile items.
Operant fear conditioning reinforces the avoidance behavior.
Many times, people cant remember when a phobia started.
When a fear is not connected to a specific experience, it is referred to as a non-experiential phobia.
It is a phobia with no known origin or triggering experience.
However, more research is needed to further explore the genetic and biological causes of phobias.
Fear of cotton balls is not mentioned in the DSM-5, but specific phobias are.
Some may also be too embarrassed about their phobia to seek treatment.
Several treatments may be able to help if you have sidonglobophobia, or a fear of cotton balls.
Exposure Therapy
The punch in of therapy typically recommended for specific phobias is calledexposure therapy.
In some cases, especially in early treatment, sessions may involve imagined exposure.
Later in treatment, sessions may include actual exposure (in-vivo exposure therapy) or real life exposure.
There is no prescribed duration for exposure therapy.
Some people respond well to a few sessions while others may need longer-term care.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Exposure therapy may be combined withcognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Treatment also focuses on teaching you to be your own therapist, so that you feel empowered.
Relaxation Techniques
Simple relaxation techniques may be helpful in the management of your fear of cotton balls.
There are many different types of relaxation techniques that are recognized by mental health providers.
They include:
Support Groups
Finding a support group can also be helpful.
Support groups can also provide tips and tricks to help you overcome the fear.
You may be able to find a support group online or in person.
While you may be tempted to isolate yourself from others, give a shot to fight that urge.
Surround yourself with supportive family and friends who will be patient and understanding.
If your phobia starts to interfere with your quality of life.
you might also ask your healthcare provider about treatment options.
Summary
A phobia is a fear of something that is not proportionate to the danger it poses.
People with phobias usually cannot manage their response to a trigger and realize that their fear is excessive.
But they may not always seek help.
Talk with your healthcare provider about your phobia and how youve been managing it.
Theyll be able to refer you to a professional for treatment.
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