Emetaphobia: Overcoming the Fear of Vomiting
The fear of vomiting, also known as emetaphobia, can be extremely debilitating and cause sufferers to miss work or school due to their fear that they may vomit in public. To overcome this overwhelming fear and keep from missing out on life’s opportunities, try these simple steps to help you understand your emetaphobia treatment options and overcome this debilitating phobia once and for all.
What is emetaphobia?
Emetaphobia, also known as vomit phobia, is a specific fear of vomiting. It is characterized by excessive concern and preoccupation with the possibility that one will vomit when traveling in a car, being embarrassed in public, and/or vomiting on oneself. Emetophobia may be caused by an underlying psychological disorder such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). For some people, emetophobia stems from traumatic experiences involving nausea or vomiting. As emetaphobics are likely to feel nauseous before they actually vomit, it can be difficult for them to differentiate between feeling sick and actually being sick.
How can I get help if I have emetaphobia?
If you have Emetaphobia, there are treatments available to help you overcome your fear. Evidence-based treatment for emetaphobia often involves exposure and response prevention and may also involve medications. Exposure therapy is when a person confronts their fears in a safe environment, such as a therapist’s office with that therapist present. Response prevention is when someone who has an anxiety disorder avoids the object or situation that triggers their anxiety until they learn to cope with it better. Medications can be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment to alleviate symptoms and make it easier for people to engage in psychotherapy or other types of therapy. If you or someone you love is suffering from emetaphobia, please contact us for treatment.
