Fear of surgery: Description, manifestations, origins, and additional insights
Tomophobia, a specific phobia of medical procedures and surgery, is a common yet often misunderstood condition. This fear can manifest as extreme anxiety, avoidance of medical procedures, and severe interference with daily life.
Unlike trypanophobia, which is an intense or irrational fear of injections, tomophobia is centred around surgery. The exact cause of tomophobia is not always clear, but theories suggest it may stem from classical conditioning, hearing someone else's fears, or previous experiences with pain or side effects after a medical procedure.
While the search results do not provide specific data on the prevalence of tomophobia in the United States, it is estimated to affect a significant portion of the population. Those who experience a fear reaction that causes them to avoid important or lifesaving procedures should consider speaking with a mental health professional.
Mental health professionals diagnose tomophobia as a specific phobia, not as a standalone diagnosis. It falls under the category of blood-injection-injury type phobias in the DSM-5-TR.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly helpful for treating tomophobia. CBT may involve a process called systematic desensitization, where an individual is gradually exposed to their fear. If tomophobia causes panic attacks, medications such as beta-blockers may be prescribed to reduce anxiety.
Fear and anxiety about surgery are common, affecting 60-80% of people before a procedure. However, not everyone with such anxiety has tomophobia. Fainting is a common symptom of tomophobia.
It's important to note that avoidance of necessary medical procedures can have serious consequences. If you or someone you know is experiencing fear or anxiety around medical procedures or surgery, it's crucial to seek help.
Resources such as the Crisis Text Line (741741), Mental Health Hotline (866-903-3787), Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, and Anxiety and Depression Association of America directory can provide valuable resources for help with anxiety.
Remember, seeking help for tomophobia is a sign of strength, not weakness. Don't let fear control your life. Reach out for support today.
