It can also be awkward at timesbut for some people, it can also be a source of fear.
What Is the Fear of Kissing?
Philemaphobia, or philematophobia, is the fear of kissing.
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It is common among young and inexperienced kissers who fear doing something wrong.
In these cases, the anxiety is generally mild to moderate and dissipates quickly as the person gains experience.
Sometimes, however, philemaphobia is more severe and can occur at any age.
This can include feelings of anxiety or panic when you think about kissing.
In some cases, you may stay away from any situation that might involve kissing.
Philemaphobia may also interfere with your ability to function in your daily life.
If the symptoms meet certain criteria, you might be diagnosed with aspecific phobia.
A phobia is more than just fear.
They must last six months or longer and must not be because of another mental health condition.
Recap
Philemaphobia is not a distinct condition in the DSM-5.
However, symptoms of a fear of kissing may meet the criteria for a specific phobia.
A healthcare provider can assess your symptoms, make a diagnosis, and then recommend treatment options.
People who have a fear of kissing may also have afear of sexual intercourse.
Fear of Germs
Philemaphobia is sometimes, but not always, related to thefear of germs.
Some people worry about catching a disease, while others are disgusted by the concept of saliva.
Many people who experience disgust regarding saliva have a similar reaction to other bodily fluids.
But for those withbromidrophobia, or the fear of bodily odors, normal concern may turn to terror.
Or that your partner’s breath may not be.
Unaddressed Trauma
Unaddressedtraumacan also be a cause or trigger for philemaphobia.
Fears of Intimacy and Vulnerability
The fear of kissing may stem from a more profound concern overintimacyorvulnerability.
As a result, they may avoid kissing so you can prevent being judged, hurt, or rejected.
These issues are complex and are best faced with the help of a competent, understanding therapist.
Kissing can be a wonderful, fulfilling experience when the anxiety associated with philemaphobia is taken away.
Fear of kissing may be related to a fear of germs, bodily odors, touch, or intimacy.
Exposure Therapy
One component that can help treat phobias is known asexposure therapy.
This process involves gradual exposure to the thing that you fear.
At the same time, you’ll practice relaxation techniques.
Over time, feelings of anxiety and fear begin to recede.
Medications
In some cases, anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants may also be helpful.
Such medications can help address some of the acute symptoms of fear you might be experiencing.
They might also be beneficial if you have a co-occurring condition such as another anxiety disorder or depression.
Prognosis and Prevention
Phobias such as philemaphobia typically respond well to treatment.
Seek treatment for your fear of kissing.
Atherapistcan help you retrace the origins of your fear and eventually assist you in overcoming it.
Relaxation strategies such asdeep breathingandprogressive muscle relaxationcan be helpful when you are experiencing feelings of anxiety.
These techniques help calm the body and alleviate some of the physical symptoms of the fear response.
More severe fears, however, may require professional assistance.
Like all phobias, uncomplicated philemaphobia responds well to various treatment options.
2018;47(4):1283-1293. doi:10.1007/s10508-018-1166-y
Eaton WW, Bienvenu OJ, Miloyan B.Specific phobias.Lancet Psychiatry.
