Phobias are fears that can be quite irrational and amusing at times. There are various phobias, ranging from common ones such as acrophobia (fear of heights) and arachnophobia (fear of spiders) to rare ones such as clinophobia (fear of going to bed).
Here’s a fun video that takes a look at the top six most amusing phobias that you’ve probably never heard of before.
Nomophobia – Fear of Being Without a Phone
Nomophobia is the fear of being without one’s smartphone. It is common among millennials and anyone who relies heavily on their phone for communication and social interaction.
Some people with nomophobia experience anxiety, panic attacks, and stress when they forget their phone at home or lose it. They feel disconnected from the world and fear they may miss out on something important.
Pogonophobia – Fear of Beards
Pogonophobia is a fear of beards, mustaches, or any form of facial hair. It is more common among women than men, and it often relates to a negative experience with a bearded person in the past, such as a traumatic event or a bad breakup.
People with pogonophobia may experience anxiety, panic attacks, and even revulsion when they see or touch facial hair.
Megalophobia – Fear of Large Objects
Megalophobia is the fear of large objects, such as skyscrapers, big animals, and large vehicles. It is often caused by a traumatic event in childhood, such as getting lost in a crowd or being trapped under a heavy object.
People with megalophobia may experience anxiety, panic attacks, and shortness of breath when they encounter large objects.
Chronophobia – Fear of Time
Chronophobia is the fear of time, particularly the passing of time and the future. People with chronophobia may feel overwhelming anxiety about aging, death, and the uncertainty of the future.
They may experience panic attacks, nightmares, and a sense of dread when thinking about the passage of time.
Ablutophobia – Fear of Bathing or Cleaning
Ablutophobia is the fear of bathing, cleaning, or washing. It is often caused by a traumatic experience in childhood, such as being forced to take a cold shower or being scolded for not being clean enough.
People with abluphobia may avoid bathing or cleaning themselves, which can lead to social isolation and skin problems.
Siderodromophobia – Fear of Trains
Siderodromophobia is the fear of trains or train travel. It is often caused by a traumatic event, such as a train accident or derailment.
People with siderodromophobia may experience anxiety, panic attacks, and nausea when riding a train or even thinking about it. They may avoid train travel altogether, which can limit their mobility and social opportunities.
Conclusion
Phobias can be amusing or irrational, but they can also be debilitating and interfere with daily life. It is important to seek help if you experience phobia symptoms that disrupt your daily functioning or quality of life.
A mental health professional can help you overcome your fears and learn coping skills to manage them.