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Megalophobia is the fear of big things.
Fully understanding megalophobia is the first step to getting the help needed to overcome it.
Here we explain its potential causes and the symptoms that one may experience.
Monty Rakusen / Getty Images
We also discuss the treatment options that exist for this mental health condition.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Overview of Megalophobia
Megalophobia is a specific phobia.
Symptoms of Megalophobia
Primary symptoms of megalophobia include an intense feeling of fear and increased anxiety.
Factors Contributing to Megalophobia
The exact causes of megalophobia are not known.
However, several different factors can contribute to its development.
For people with megalophobia, this fear becomes more severe than what other people normally experience.
Media or Legends
Sometimes news stories or even legends can contribute to these fears.
A perfect example is thefear of animalsthat are large in size, like the giant squid.
Still, the rumors persisted.
It is easy to imagine how hearing such stories could contribute to a full-blown phobia.
Even today, phobias of giant killer animals persist and are exploited in such films asJawsandAnaconda.
This helps shift their perspective to one that involves less fear.
When exposed to these items in the future, these skills can be used to reduce the fear experienced.
Exposure Therapies
Another jot down of psychotherapy used to treat megalophobia isexposure therapy.
Summary
It’s important for people with a phobia of large objects or animals to seek treatment.
With proper treatment, most phobias can be cured or managed.
Conversely, untreated phobias tend to worsen over time.A mental health professional can help develop apersonalized treatment plan.
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National Library of Medicine.DSM-IV to DSM-5 specific phobia comparison.
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Exposure therapies for specific phobias.
Society of Clinical Psychology.
