Claustrophobia

It is a form of anxiety disorder in which a person has an intense fear of being in a confined space. A claustrophobic person may panic inside the lift, aeroplane, fuel tank, crowded room or any enclosed area. He should not undertake the tasks pertaining to those trigger situations. The company should make sure proper provision (such as adequate lighting, look-out person, ventilation, appropriate heating/cooling, suitable escape tools/materials in a close proximity, breathing apparatus, etc.) is made for quick evacuation in the event of any dangers.

Causes of Claustrophobia

• Genetic susceptibility
• Traumatic experience in the past
• Fear of losing control
• Bullying

Symptoms of Claustrophobia

• Sweating or chillness
• Trembling
• Accelerated heart rate
• Breathing difficulties
• Tightness in the chest
• Choking sensation
• Butterfly sensation in the stomach
• Nausea
• Feeling confused
• Light headedness
• Severe numbness
• Fear of dying
• Desperately checking for the exits when inside the room & Avoiding traffic while inside the vehicle

Treatment for Claustrophobia

• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT): It is a type of counselling that develops effective practical ways dealing with phobias by exploring the person’s thoughts, feelings and behaviour.
• Flooding: In this treatment, the person comes to realisation by being exposed to the triggers until the anxiety attack passes.
• Neuro-Linguistic Programming: In this type of behavioural therapy, the anxiety is reduced by deconstructing the individual’s skeptic view of reality.
• Counter Conditioning: It is also known as systematic desensitisation during which the person is taught to use visualization and relaxation techniques and gradually be reintroduced to the source of fear.
• Modelling technique: The person is allowed to watch other people confronting the same trigger type and is motivated to imitate the confidence.
• Relaxation techniques: Following meditation routine, taking deep breaths and doing muscle relaxing exercises deal with pessimistic thoughts.
• Drug Therapy: Health care professionals might suggest medications such as tranquilizers and antidepressants that can help manage symptoms.
• Alternative Medicine: This includes ayurvedic, natural, homeopathic and related medicines.
• Support Groups: There are various charities and self-help groups involved in supporting people suffering from numerous phobic conditions.