Why Am I Afraid Of Tornadoes Or Hurricanes?

Does the weather control your life?

Do you spend a great deal of time watching the Weather Channel or tracking storms online?

Do you refuse to go out on days when storms are predicted?

When a storm hits, do you display unusual behaviors, for example hiding under the bed or in a closet?

Do you put a full tornado plan into effect as soon as the rain begins?

Do you constantly check for weather alert?

Do you listen closely to the storm for sounds of tornado activity, or do you try to drown out the storm altogether with loud music or movies?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have a clinical problem related to an intense fear of tornadoes or hurricanes. It’s normal to feel a bit scared of tornadoes and/or hurricanes. However, there are people who suffer from this condition called lilapsophobia. Lilapsophobia is described as a(n abnormal) fear of tornadoes and hurricanes. Someone who suffers from lilapsophobia does not fear the common summer storm, but the possibility of that storm becoming severe. Over time their daily activities will become more and more restricted, and they may even avoid taking part in outdoor activites. Lilapsophobia is relatively common.

Based on your answers, you are displaying some signs of a clinical condition that is related to an abnormal fear of tornadoes or hurricanes. This condition is called lilapsophobia. People who suffer from lilapsophobia develop the disorder usually because they went through a negative experience related to tornadoes or huricanes. For example, you may have been affected by severe weather that caused personal injury or property damage. In case you have experienced a truly devastating storm, it’s very important to seek professional help. Besides lilapsophobia, you may also suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Don’t feel embarrassed to seek help from a mental health practitioner.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have lilapsophobia. It is recommended to seek medical support for your symptoms. Lilapsophobia is described as a fear of tornadoes and hurricanes. Over time, you will notice that your daily activities will become more and more restricted. For example, you may avoid taking part in outdoor activities for fear that a storm may hit. Lilapsophobia, like many other phobias, is usually treated through cognitive-behavioral therapy. However, if the phobia stems from post-traumatic stress disorder, other types of interventions may be more beneficial. Talk to your doctor to understand what the best course of action is in your case.