‘Claustophobia‘ is seen as an anxiety disorder. In other words, it is characterized by intense fear of being trapped in confined spaces, such as crowded place, small rooms, tunnels, or elevators. It seems as if the brain gets choked off in such environments. Many people may panic and experience an intense fear of being trapped. This occurs mostly in day-to-day life, while using public transport or at times of getting an MRI scan. Even enclosed spaces in cars can lead to claustrophobia in some people.
According to various researches, it is said that the ‘amygdala’ a part of brain helps us to respond in fear. People with symptoms of claustrophobia, gets extra conscious and their brain cells get activated when they are stuck in small or enclosed spaces, even if there is no real danger. So, basically, their tendency of fear feels like being stronger than the usual (normal times), and the brain starts feeling anxious and overreacts when they are scared.
Symptoms Related To Claustophobia:
- Any traumatic event that would have occurred especially in your childhood.
- Fear of loosing someone very close to you.
- Feel choking.
- Fear of Dying.
- Feel numbness.
- Feeling confused.
- Trembling.
- Increased heart rate (might lead to sweating).
- Dyspnea (shortness of breath).
- Nausea.
- Pain in chest.
How To Deal With Claustophobia:
Though it effects your overall work efficiency, reduces self-esteem, and lowers your activity process, still, people has the power to cope up with such panic situations.
There’s a good news for all. The phobia can now be diagnosed if you come across with an experienced consultant. There are various training processes through which Claustophobia can be successfully treated. Here are some of the effective approaches which help you fight fear.
- Cognitive Behavioural Approach (CBT)– This helps you in identifying your pattern of thoughts that trigger the fear of being avoided or trapped. In the entire process, the therapist discusses and explores your symptoms that gradually leads to fear. In order to cope up with such dramatic situations, they train you with problem-solving skills to face your phobia.
- Desensitization Theraphy (also known as exposer therapy)- This test helps you feel comfortable in some panic or feared situation(s).
- Stress-Reducing Strategies– There are various relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and other related methods that help you manage your anxiety. Stay focused and attentive on works or things that makes you relaxed and calm.
- Communication is the key– Communicate with people whom you trust. This is the most early help as they will actually listen to you and help you come out with such stressful situation(s).
Never feel ashamed of in such difficult situation. You can ask for help to anyone whom you are surrounded with. If by any chance you feel trapped, then the first thing you should apply on yourself is to calm your mind through deep breathing. This is only way to deal with yourself first as it supports your brain to function normally.
