Catoptrophobia is the fear To the mirrors. People who suffer from this disorder have phobia to the reflection they see behind the glass.
Next, we review what catopchobia is, what are its symptoms, treatments and how to overcome this phobia.
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Catoptrophobia symptoms
According to the Institute of Advanced Psychotherapies (IPSIA), the main symptom is an intense anxiety in the presence of mirrors or their simple anticipation. This reaction can manifest in different ways:
• Cognitive symptoms: thoughts of irrational fear, anguish and tendency to Avoid situations related to mirrors.
• Behavioral symptoms: flight actions or avoidance of the phobic stimulus.
• Physical symptoms: palpitations, headaches, gastric discomfort, excessive sweating or breathing difficulty.
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How to overcome the phobia to mirrors?
Catoptrophobia has treatment, and the most effective approach is usually psychological therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is one of the most used and with better results. Its objective, according to IPSIA, is to modify the patterns of thought and behavior associated with fear.
Among the most common techniques are progressive exposure to the feared object and systematic desensitization, which allows the patient to gradually face the stimulus while learning to control anxiety by breathing or relaxation.
In initial phases, treatment can consist of looking at images of mirrors. Over time, and the emotional response is strengthened, the person can hold a mirror without experiencing fear.
In addition, third generation therapies, such as acceptance and commitment therapy or cognitive therapy based on mindfulness, have also shown efficacy in the Treatment of anxiety disordersaccording to Ipsia.
In severe cases, pharmacological support can be a useful complement, although it must always be supervised by professionals and accompanied by psychological therapy to guarantee sustainable results.
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Psychological treatment: objectives and approaches
The main goal of treatment is to progressively reduce the anxious response. To do this, an intervention adapted to the rhythm and characteristics of the patient is designed.
Techniques such as cognitive restructuring are used to question irrational beliefs and reinforce the perception of personal control, together with relaxation techniques that help manage anxiety during exposure.
Although it is common for some resistance to seeking professional help, clinical experience shows that adequate treatment can allow overcome this phobia effectively and with controlled anxiety levels, according to the Institute of Advanced Psychotherapies (IPSIA).
(With EFE information)
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