Emetophobia Treatment in Austin
Recognizing Emetophobia
Emetophobia is the intense fear of vomit or vomiting. The fear can be so intense that individuals may develop behaviors similar to that of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) to avoid coming into contact with or seeing vomit. Those feeling symptoms may attempt to control how the stomach feels; avoiding gas, cramps, heartburn, etc., avoid social gatherings where food may be present, avoid certain television shows and movies, so as not to see vomiting, avoid activities that may cause stomach upset; flying, roller coasters, swimming, etc., and excessively seek reassurance.
Recommended Treatment Emetophobia
Similar to other anxiety disorders, Emetophobia responds well to treatment. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is considered the treatment of choice with emphasis placed on identifying unhelpful thoughts, challenging those thoughts, and generating alternative coping thoughts. Relaxation techniques targeting physical symptoms of stress and anxiety may also be a helpful component of the treatment plan. These new skills are then implemented in situations that cause anxiety (in vivo exposures). This is accomplished gradually beginning with the easiest situations then progressing to more anxiety provoking situations.
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