As is the case with all phobias, determining your phobia of reptiles comes down to a number of factors. It is important to consider these factors carefully, in order to decide if you have the clinical definition of a phobia of reptiles, or if you simply don’t like them.
There are several defining characteristics to a phobia of reptiles. As you keep this in mind, it’s also important to remember that there are also several differing degrees of a reptile phobia.
Do You Have A Reptile Phobia
The clinical term for a phobia of reptiles is herpetophobia. It is considered to be one of the more common animal phobias in existence. Many believe that its origins can be traced back to our ancestors. Although snakes are commonly associated with this phobia, they are not the full extent of a fear of reptiles for many people. To a large number of individuals, their herpetophobia is an all-encompassing condition. It extends to all types of reptiles, but it is most keenly realized during some form of contact with snakes or lizards.
As previously mentioned, there are several different degrees of herpetophobia. It can range from a strong discomfort around reptiles, to something that is so intensely stressful, the physical symptoms associated with panic can materialize. These symptoms can include shortness of breath, an inability to speak, sweating, shaking, nausea, and much more.
The specifics of herpetophobia can vary from one person to the next. Some people simply do not like to touch or be near large snakes. Others cannot even look at pictures, go into a pet store that sells reptiles, or enter areas in which reptiles are known to exist. These are considered to be the more extreme cases.
Treating a phobia of reptiles must first involve a diagnosis of the actual clinical condition. This is something that should only be done by a trusted mental health specialist. Once this has been established, treatment options for herpetophobia can begin. Treatments can include hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. There are also a variety of medications that can help an individual to manage the physical symptoms of a phobia of reptiles. This is also something that should be discussed with a trusted mental health professional.
Dealing with herpetophobia is important, but it is perhaps more essential for others. Some can live a perfectly comfortable life, and only experience their phobia in extreme cases. Others can find the condition becoming debilitating over the long-term.