The term “germaphobia” is commonly used, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is often casually used to describe behaviors like frequent hand sanitizing or declining to share a drink. However, for those with true germaphobia, also known as mysophobia, the fear of germs is not casual. According to Evan Vida, PsyD, a postdoctoral fellow at the Center for Anxiety & Behavior Therapy, germaphobia involves an overwhelming and often irrational fear that significantly impacts daily life.
The symptoms of germaphobia include intense anxiety at the thought of germs, going to extreme lengths to avoid germs, and engaging in cleaning rituals to remove potential contact with germs. These behaviors can lead to social isolation and physical symptoms of anxiety, such as sweating, rapid heartbeat, and trouble breathing.
Distinguishing between a general dislike of germs and germaphobia involves assessing the intensity of the fear and its impact on daily life. While it is normal to have concerns about cleanliness, germaphobia causes significant distress and disrupts normal activities.
The causes of germaphobia are complex and may involve a combination of genetic factors, personal experiences, and predisposition to anxiety disorders. Women are more likely to have a specific phobia than men, and a history of anxiety disorders can increase the likelihood of developing germaphobia.
Germaphobia differs from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in terms of the emotions experienced and behaviors done to deal with them. While OCD often involves ritualized behaviors driven by intrusive thoughts, germaphobia is characterized by more logical protective actions.
Although germaphobia is not listed as a specific mental disorder in the DSM-5, it can be considered a specific phobia or a symptom of another anxiety disorder. Diagnosing germaphobia involves a comprehensive psychological evaluation to determine the impact of germ-related behaviors on daily functioning.
