It varies in severity from person to person.
It is normal to feel uncomfortable or even anxious if someone is staring at you in an unusual way.
It is also normal to feel nervous in a public speaking or performance situation.
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Scopophobia is more serious, however.
Scopophobia is often, though not always, associated with othersocial phobias.
Untreated, the fear may worsen over time.
This article discusses the symptoms of scopophobia and how it is diagnosed.
It also explores some treatments that can help people cope with this condition.
Some people only fear large group situations, while others fear short transactions such as grocery store checkouts.
Some are afraid of such incidental contact as exchanging pleasantries with someone walking down the street.
When confronting your feared situation, you might blush profusely.
Some people with scopophobia begin to limit their daily activities to avoid panic reactions.
You might refuse to go out alone or host people you do not know well in your home.
Over time, untreated scopophobia sometimes worsens.
You might eventually become uncomfortable even in the company of trusted friends or relatives.
Instead, a person experiencing this phobia would be diagnosed with a specific phobia.
The symptoms also must not be better explained by another condition.
Causes of Scopophobia
The exact causes of scopophobia are not entirely clear.
Like other types of phobias, several factors may contribute to the development of this condition.
Many adolescents go through a phase of extreme self-consciousness, which may include worries about being looked at.
In general, however, these feelings subside over time.
However, if the fear persists or worsens, it may be diagnosed as scopophobia.
Scopophobia and Related Disorders
Scopophobia is a specific phobia but may be related to social anxiety disorder.
Note that reasonable fears are never diagnosed as phobias.
However, for some people, the fear is out of proportion to the risk.
Your therapist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses scopophobia and co-occurring disorders.
With appropriate treatment and perseverance, it can be overcome.
The benefits of treatment are well worth the time and energy required to overcome this phobia.
Face Your Fears
Taking steps to face your fears on your own gradually can also be helpful.
The key is to do so slowly in situations where you feel safe and have support.
Avoidance worsens anxiety over time, so look for opportunities to practice facing the things you fear.
confirm you are getting enough sleep, staying active each day, and eating a balanced diet.
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