In addition to sharks, masked intruders, and apocalyptic disasters, the film industry has succeeded in making air travel seem even more terrifying. If your first exposure to a Hollywood flight gone wrong left you with a lifelong fear of flying, you are not alone. Some individuals with aerophobia, or a clinical diagnosis of a “fear of flying,” are so paralyzed by their fear that they cannot even think about boarding a plane, let alone visit an airport.
Luckily, psychologists have identified proven treatment methods to help individuals with aerophobia overcome their fears. If you suspect you may have aerophobia or know someone who does, read on to learn more.
Aerophobia, also known as aviophobia, is a specific phobia classified as a fear of flying. While it encompasses various modes of air travel, it is commonly associated with a fear of flying by airplane due to its prevalence.
Symptoms of aerophobia can vary but may include heightened anxiety about flying, avoidance of air travel, anxiety about upcoming flights, difficulty concentrating or relaxing during flights, and an obsession with the possibility of an airplane crash. Physical symptoms may manifest as an increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, nausea, or stomach discomfort.
The causes of aerophobia can be rooted in past trauma related to air travel or other factors. Phobias can develop through observational learning, trauma, or information transmission. Research suggests that genetics and certain mental health conditions may also play a role in the development of phobias.
Aerophobia and flight anxiety are not the same, with aerophobia being a diagnosable condition that significantly impacts an individual’s life. While flight anxiety is common, aerophobia prevents individuals from participating in air travel due to their overwhelming fear.
Acrophobia and aerophobia are distinct phobias centered around elevation, with acrophobia being a fear of heights, not necessarily related to air travel. Treatment methods for phobias, including exposure therapy, have shown success in helping individuals overcome their fears.
While aerophobia is a challenging condition to face, it is possible to overcome with the help of professional treatment. Approximately 75% of individuals with specific phobias can overcome their fears through treatment methods such as exposure therapy. If you struggle with a fear of flying, reach out to a mental health professional for support.
