Definition of Claustrophobia

One the most common phobias in the United States, claustrophobia is a disorder that is a fear of being in tightly enclosed spaces.

Situational Phobia

• Because it is prompted by a certain environment, claustrophobia is classified as a situational phobia.

Causes

• This phobia can develop from a traumatic event in life involving a small confined space. Examples of this would include being stuck in an elevator or being stuck in a small space when playing a childhood game.

From Panic to Claustrophobia

• When you suffer a panic attack in such a situation, your brain programs that reaction, and establishes a connection between panic and small spaces.

Symptoms

• When stuck in a tight space or tightly confined area, people who are claustrophobic tend to sweat, become nauseous or light headed, faint or even begin to fear literal physical harm.

Treatment

• While there is no cure for claustrophobia, there are treatments that can help control it. Treatments include behavior therapy, exposure therapy and prescription drugs.