Monophobia
What is it?
Monophobia, also known as autophobia or isolophobia, is a specific phobia characterized by an intense fear or avoidance of being alone or isolated. People with monophobia may experience extreme anxiety or panic attacks when they are in situations where they are alone or perceive themselves to be alone.
Additional names
This group contains additional names:
- autophobia
- isolophobia
Signs & symptoms
- Anxiety or panic attacks when alone or thinking about being alone.
- Avoidance of situations that may result in being alone.
- Feelings of dread or impending doom when anticipating being alone.
- Physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, or dizziness.
- The need for constant reassurance or presence of others to feel safe.
- Difficulty sleeping due to fear of being alone.
Diagnosis
To diagnose monophobia, a mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment. They will evaluate the individual's symptoms, medical history, and personal experiences. The criteria for diagnosing monophobia include:
- Persistent fear or avoidance of being alone.
- The fear or avoidance causes significant distress or impairment in daily functioning.
- The fear or avoidance is not better explained by another mental disorder or medical condition.
Treatment
- Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used to treat monophobia. It helps individuals identify and challenge their irrational thoughts and beliefs related to being alone. Exposure therapy, a form of CBT, gradually exposes the person to situations that trigger fear and teaches them coping strategies to manage their anxiety.
- Medication: In some cases, doctors may prescribe anti-anxiety medications or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to help manage the symptoms of monophobia. Medication is often used in conjunction with therapy.
☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.
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