The article is developed in partnership with BetterHelp.
There are so many Phobias in the world for humans. For many people to go out alone to a bar sounds like an exciting adventure they want to experience every other weekend! Other people may dread this exact scenario. It is okay to avoid crowded areas and busy bars; however, for some individuals, it can be detrimental to their mental health.
Many people have something that they are afraid of, and this fear can often develop into a debilitating phobia. Discover more about the fear of crowds, its common causes, and signs that you or someone you know has this phobia. Also, learn how you can find help and treatment for this fear!
What is Enochlophobias?
Enochlophobia is the fear of crowds and crowded places. In other words, a place filled with many people may cause someone with enochlophobia to feel uncomfortable and distressed.
Like other phobias, enochlophobia is an intense and irrational fear. While it may feel extremely dangerous and life-threatening to the individual, that is not a clear depiction of the situation. Someone with enochlophobia typically experiences intense symptoms when confronted with a crowd of people.
Do you want to learn more about enochlophobia and a variety of other phobias? Consider reading articles provided by BetterHelp. Each writing is medically reviewed by a professional for your learning experience.
Places People May Experience Enochlophobias
Generally speaking, any place where a crowd might gather is a place where someone can experience enochlophobia. Common places are as follows:
Bars
Parties
Indoor Concerts
Outdoor Concerts/Festivals
Swimming Pools
Bus Transportation
Causes of Enochlophobias?
There is never one cause of a phobia that all people have. You can develop any phobia for a variety of reasons. Typically, those with enochlophobia may experience a traumatic event that occurred in a crowd. For example, someone who was lost in a crowd or busy store as a child would be at risk of developing this phobia.
Another reason someone could develop a fear of crowds is through their environment and exposure. For example, this fear could be ignited by being exposed to crowd-based fear from a family member, friend, or even a movie.
Symptoms and Signs of Enchohlophobias
Many signs and symptoms of enochlophobia are similar to symptoms of other phobias.
Some physical symptoms that someone may experience are as follows: inability to breathe properly, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, lightheadedness, dry mouth, sweating, shaking, upset stomach, and muscle tension.
Mental or emotional symptoms that individuals often experience because of a phobia are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, hopelessness, and isolation.
Treatment Options for Enochlophobias
The most common treatment for any phobia, enochlophobia included, is therapy! Many patients find great success with therapy. By working with a therapist, the individual can learn more about their phobia and the reason why they may be experiencing this fear.
People can also learn valuable coping techniques. For example, many therapists have access to medical-based breathing techniques, guided meditations, and journaling prompts. With these tools, you can learn how to navigate through your phobia.
You can also talk to your doctor about medications. In severe cases, people may require medications to help alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety. By working with your doctor and therapist, you can find healing from your fear.