How to Recognize Aquaphobia

When a fear becomes irrational and debilitating, it is known as a phobia. As one of the most common types of anxiety disorders, phobias bring about a level of fear that is outside of what is considered normal. While the sufferer may know logically that his fear is unfounded, it doesn't stop the phobia from severely impacting his life. Aquaphobia, or a fear of water, is a common phobia that ranges from a fear of open water to avoiding bathtubs.

Instructions

• 1

  Understand the condition. Aquaphobia can range from a fear of a large body of water, such as an ocean or lake, to anxiety about being splashed or rained on. Even though the sufferer knows that water is not a threat to them, they still have an abnormal fear of it. Most aquaphobes avoid swimming, boating or even standing near a pool, lake or stream.

• 2

  Analyze your past. Many psychologists believe that phobias are caused by a deeply traumatic event in early childhood. Many aquaphobes recall a near drowning, traumatic event on or near water, experienced a family member's traumatic water event or simply have an instinctive fear of water from a young age. Often, inexperience around large bodies of water can trigger aquaphobia.

• 3

  See how you react. Sufferers of aquaphobia usually experience panic attacks when exposed to water. Rapid heartbeat, sweating, labored breathing, intense anxiety and an overwhelming urge to avoid water are typical responses. Sufferers may avoid standing next to people also near water for fear of being pushed or dragged into the water.

• 4

  Know your limits. Some aquaphobes are fine with water on a small scale, such as in a bathroom or even a fountain, but panic around anything larger. Other aquaphobia victims recoil at even the smallest water amounts and avoid scenarios where they have to deal with water at all. Don't be surprised if you experience all or few of these wide ranging symptoms as you attempt to diagnose aquaphobia.