What is globeaphobia?

*Globeaphobia* or *geophobia*, also called _cosmopolitism_, is characterized by an intense, irrational fear or anxiety of the Earth, or of three-dimensional spherical objects representing the Earth. Some individuals might also be afraid of globes, balls or spheres.

There is no known etiology, or exact cause, of globeaphobia. As with many phobias, globeaphobia is thought to be due to some sort of traumatic event that occurred in the person's childhood. However, it is possible for the phobia to develop later in life. It can be challenging for people with globeaphobia to live normal, healthy lives. They may have panic attacks when exposed to globes, balls, or other spherical objects. Some may also avoid going outside because they may fear that the Earth will "swallow them up."

Symptoms include feeling anxious or nervous around balloons, balls, or globes, an urgent desire to escape, difficulty thinking or concentrating, nausea, cold sweats, and increased heart rate.

Treatment typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps people to challenge and change negative thoughts and behaviors associated with their phobia. Exposure therapy, which gradually exposes people to feared objects or situations, is also commonly used.