Types of Phobias: Acrophobia.
Investigating about these symptoms, I realized that I suffer from some type of phobia, which is called Acrophobia, which is precisely the topic that I want to share with you in this post.
Acrophobia is a debilitating anxiety disorder that affects almost 1 in 20 adults. The word is derived from the Greek word "Acron" which means heights and "phobos" which means fear. People who are afraid of heights generally avoid tall buildings, ferris wheels, roller coasters, skiing or even standing on high hills or balconies. Acrophobia generally affects recreational activities that one can enjoy. However, in some extreme cases, phobia can affect daily life. For example: driving bridges can trigger panic attacks or dizziness or people who live or work in large cities may have difficulty attending meetings on the upper floors of a building or may experience dizziness on escalators, glass elevators, guardrails and stairs, etc.
Causes of fear of heights
Psychiatrists mainly blame negative thinking for Acrophobia. Negative thoughts include:
- If I stand on the ledge, I will be tempted to jump or someone will push me.
- I will lose my balance.
- The structure of the building is weak and will collapse, or the elevator car will collapse.
- I will get dizzy or suffer a heart attack and I will fall.
Treatment for acrophobia
A great commitment is needed to overcome the fear of heights. People must show great dedication to overcome this fear. Sometimes, drugs can help the individual calm the mind and relieve anxious thoughts. Hypnosis, positive thinking and meditation are some other techniques that help phobic people overcome their fear of heights.
In some cases alcohol is a valuable treatment for heights without a particular invention.
