Wondering if your random fear might not be unfounded, and even studied? We all have things we’re afraid of, but some are more common than others. And for as many types of fear, there is a name for almost everyone.
If you’ve ever wondered “what is a phobia?” or “what is fear?” know that they are the same thing. Something you dread, which causes you anxiety and great peril.
Some fears don’t feel like they make a lot of sense, but there may be more working behind the scenes than you think. Check out some of the more common fears people have, and see if a few of yours make the list.
Fear of Spiders
Aracnaphorbia is an incredibly common fear, impacting almost a third of the population to some degree. While for some people it might mean being squeamish and needing someone else to take care of a spider in the house, it can be even more of a hindrance.
Some people will go so far as to avoid activities where spiders might be, like camping or other outdoor events. It can cause great anxiety for those with arachnophobia, to the point that even seeing a picture could freak them out. The theory around arachnophobia is that humans evolved to have the fear of spiders since many can be poisonous, so it is advantageous to keep your distance.
Fear of Heights
Aerophobia is a fear of heights, which impacts up to 5% of the population. Many people are afraid to get up high, tied to the fear of losing balance and falling from such a height. It can lead people to become dizzy and feel like they are experiencing vertigo when they go too high up.
Some people may freeze and be unable or unwilling to move from their spot without help. It is generally not too debilitating since once the person returns to the ground they are okay. For some people, it is triggered by going high up in a building, and for others, it could happen from only climbing a tree.
Fear of Public Speaking
Of all the types of phobias, fear of public speaking is another incredibly common one. Glossophobia, the technical term, impacts about a fourth of the population. Generally, this is a fear of speaking in front of a group, but the size can differ depending on the person.
This fear is so common that there are even fear of public speaking courses to help people who deal with it. The fear may mean someone avoids a job where they would have to give speeches or prevent someone from talking altogether.
Fear of Germs
Mysophobia, or fear of germs, is related to a fear of being dirty or getting dirty. They will keep their surroundings very clean, often wash or sanitize their hands, and avoid touching others. In extreme cases of this phobia, people may not leave their houses at all.
It is connected with a fear of illness due to germs and may contribute to hypochondria in some cases. This is not to be confused with someone who has OCD, where someone may have the compulsion to wash their hands, but not due to a fear of germs necessarily.
Fear of Small Spaces
Claustrophobia, or a fear of small spaces, is a very common term, though it only applies to about 5% of the population. Many different types of fear have varying degrees within them. Someone may experience claustrophobia by being in a small space like a crawlspace, or even from being in a crowded room with a lot of people around.
This phobia could be developed from a traumatic event as a child in a small space. The phobia can trigger anxiety and even panic attacks that require the person to be removed from the space that is triggering the fear.
Fear of Inescapable Situations
Agoraphobia is made up of many different types of fear. It generally prevents someone from leaving their house without anxiety due to a belief that it is dangerous outside. There may be a fear that they will get trapped in a situation they can’t easily leave, or that help won’t be able to reach them.
Being in unfamiliar places can trigger waves of panic, leading many people to become more reclusive. They may avoid traveling or being in big open spaces.
Fear of Injections
Everyone can remember having to get a shot as a child and crying. Trypanophobia, or fear of needles or injections, impacts about 10% of people. They may faint or feel dizzy when having to receive an injection, or even watching someone else have one.
This is also connected to a fear of hospitals, medical procedures, and doctors. It can lead people to avoid procedures or necessary checkups.
The Many Types of Fear
This world includes many fear-inducing things, but when they have a name it can help people better understand their fears and what causes them. With all the types of fears out there, it is reasonable to have a few of the more common ones. But if fear is impacting your life in a big way, like preventing you from leaving your home or having a dream job you’ve always wanted, it may be time to get help.
There are many ways to address fears, and often a psychologist can help you better understand the root of your fear and how to handle it. Don’t let fear rule your life. And if you found this helpful as a guide to different types of fears, keep reading for more interesting information.