Do I Have Astraphobia?

Do you experience feelings of panic, both before and during a storm?

Do you experience chest pain before and/or during a storm?

Do you start shaking before and/or during a storm?

Do you experience nausea before and/or during a storm?

Do you experience numbness before and/or during a storm?

Do you experience heart palpitations before and/or during a storm?

Do you have trouble breathing before and/or during a storm?

Do you have an obsessive desire to monitor the storm?

Do you feel the need to hide away from the storm (e.g., in a closet, bathroom, or under the bed)?

Do you cling to others for protection before and/or during a storm?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have astraphobia. Astraphobia is described as an extreme fear of thunder and lightning. It’s common to feel anxious when you are caught in a thunderstorm, or when you are preparing for severe weather conditions. However, in people with astraphobia thunderstorms cause extreme, debilitating reactions. Luckily, astraphobia is a treatable anxiety disorder. In your case, there seem to be no reasons for concern. In case you would like to know more about the condition, you can always talk to your doctor.

Based on your answers, you are displaying some signs related to astraphobia. Astraphobia is described as an extreme fear of thunder and lightning. Symptoms can be triggered by a weather report, a conversation, or a sudden sound. If your phobia lasts longer than six months or is clearly interfering with daily functioning, it may be important to seek medical help. Your doctor will first rule out medical causes for the symptoms. There is no specific test for the condition, but by asking specific questions and using the diagnostic manual, your doctor will try to find out if what you have is a phobia.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have astraphobia. Seeking medical support for your symptoms is very important. Astraphobia is an extreme fear of thunder and lightning. There are various treatments for phobias that may be effective. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) will help you to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive and more rational ones. Dialectical behavioral therapy is also an option, in which CBT is coupled with meditation. Acceptance and commitment therapy and stress management techniques may be beneficial as well. Lastly, there are medications that can reduce stress, which can be added to therapy.