Phobia Of The Day - Chiraptophobia: Fear Of Being Touched....

What is Chiraptophobia?

Chiraptophobia is the fear of being touched. People who have this fear avoid contact with people, which could relate back to sexual fears or fears they could become contaminated. People with this phobia might also have Agoraphobia (which is discussed on the home page) or Chirophobia (fear of hands). The origin of the word chira is Greek (meaning hand or pertaining to the hand or hands), apt is Greek (meaning touch or fasten) and phobia is Greek (meaning fear). Chiraptophobia is considered to be a social phobia, which is discussed on the home page. Chiraptophobia is also known as Aphephobia, Aphenphosmphobia, Haphephobia and Haptephobia.
 
What are the causes?

It is generally accepted that phobias arise from a combination of external events (i.e. traumatic events) and internal predispositions (i.e. heredity or genetics). Many specific phobias can be traced back to a specific triggering event, usually a traumatic experience at an early age. Social phobias and agoraphobia have more complex causes that are not entirely known at this time. It is believed that heredity, genetics, and brain chemistry combine with life-experiences to play a major role in the development of phobias.

What are the symptoms?

As with any phobia, the symptoms vary by person depending on their level of fear. The symptoms typically include extreme anxiety, dread and anything associated with panic such as shortness of breath, rapid breathing, irregular heartbeat, sweating, excessive sweating, nausea, dry mouth, nausea, inability to articulate words or sentences, dry mouth and shaking.
 
Can I take medicine?

Medicine can be prescribed, but please note that these medications can have side effects and/or withdrawal systems that can be severe. It is also important to note that medicines do not cure phobias, at best they only temporarily suppress the systems. However, there are treatments for phobias, which include counseling, hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, and Neuro-Linguistic programming. Please click on the link at the top of the page called “Treatment Information” to find out more information on these types of treatments.

As we know there are numerous types of phobias. The most popular treatment for phobias is to see a psychologist, psychiatrist, hypnotherapist, and/or hypnotist. These types of doctors can try to help the person cope with the phobia or understand what is causing the problem so it can be resolved. I have also listed below the types of treatment which might be recommended.

Hypnoanalysis (also called Hypnotherapy)

Hypnoanalysis (Hypnotherapy) is a type of therapy by which a person, with the assistance of a trained specialist, has his/her subconscious mind opened to suggestion for the purpose of changing one or more behavior patterns. When the subconscious is spoken to directly, it may be possible to find the issue triggering their phobia and introduce new ideas and positive suggestions. These positive suggestions may then be used to help make the changes you desire. Teaching the mind to attach different feelings to their feared item can usually be accomplished in a several sessions. Some people do not like people playing with their minds. However, hypnoanalysis (hypnotherapy) is considered to be safe and works fast. Hypnoanalysis (Hypnotherapy) has been approved as a method of therapy since 1958 by the American Medical Association.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)

NLP is basically the study and practice of how we create our reality. The basic premise of NLP is that the words we use reflect an inner, subconscious perception of our problems. If these words and perceptions are inaccurate, they will create an underlying problem as long as we continue to use and to think them. Our attitudes are, in a sense, a self-fulfilling prophecy. In this therapy a neuro linguistic therapist will analyze every word and phrase you use in describing your symptoms or concerns about your health. He or she will examine your facial expressions and body movements.

After determining problems in your perception, the therapist will help you understand the root cause. The therapist will help you remodel your thoughts and mental associations in order to fix your preconceived notions. These preconceived notions may be keeping you from achieving the success you deserve. Please visit www.holistic-online.com for more information on this topic.

Energy Psychology

Energy Psychology is a type of therapy that uses various techniques, such as acupressure, yoga, t ai chi, prana, qi gong, and energy medicine, which teach people simple steps for making changes in their lives. The techniques stimulate energy points on the surface of the skin which, when paired with specific psychological procedures, can shift the brain’s electrochemistry. While this type of therapy is still a controversial area, it appears to be very help with dealing with phobias.

Tips

While is it recommended that you see a specialist for a phobia. Listed below are some helpful tips, which might help you in the future.

1. In order to combat fear you should take a positive approach and be mentally ready and in control at all times.
2. One way to control a phobia is to ignore it, which is easier said then done. However, if you think or talk about it, then you will create more fear and anxiety, which might make the phobia worse.
3. Try researching more information about your phobia. They say knowledge is power and it might help you in the long run. However, do not dwell on the phobia or is might make it worse.
4. Take some classes or seminars regarding your phobia. They will help you learn about yourself and your phobia. It can be a rewarding experience.
5. Attend discussion groups that allow you to talk about your fears. The groups allow you to develop bonds with others with phobias and let you know you are not alone.
6. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people that you trust who can give you assistance and feedback on your fear.
7. Order books or subscribe to magazines that provide you with information regarding your phobia or how to overcome it. One book that got positive feedback during my searches was "Anxiety, Phobias, & Panic: A Step-by-Step Program for Regaining Control of Your Life" by Reneau Peurifoy.