How to Deal with Arachnophobia
Phobias are defined as "irrational fears". Unfortunately, knowing that the fear of spiders is irrational will not stop an arachnophobic individual from running for the hills in the presence of an eight legged guest. While the process might be tough, there are ways to rationalize the senses and learn to cope with arachnophobia.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Keep clear of places where spiders are likely to be prominent. This would include crawl spaces and wooded areas. This is by no means a permanent solution or lifestyle change. This is only advisable while working to get the phobia itself under control.
-
2
Chart memories or imagined scenarios involving spiders in a journal. Rank these scenarios from least to most frightening. Try to conquer each imagined scenario on the list. Beginning with the easiest heightens chances of success.
-
-
3
Learn what you can about spiders. Perhaps for some people, knowing how to tell dangerous spiders from non-threatening spiders can replenish a sense of control the person with arachnophobia has been robbed of.
-
4
Consider talking to a professional about behavioral therapy. Most commonly used is the aversion method, where the patient is presented with the object that causes irrational fear (in this case a spider). The patient is taught to confront the fear and gradually works toward the object until the fear is eradicated.
-
5
Ask your doctor about the various anxiety medications most recommended for people suffering from phobias. See which one, if any, would be right for you.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Scientists in Europe are working on a virtual reality system that would alleviate some of the stress of aversion therapy for arachnophobics.
Aversion therapy should only be attempted with a professional, especially when dealing with real spiders. If you're not sure what spider you're messing with, it can be extremely dangerous.
