Most of us are scared of snakes. It’s not surprising, considering the lethal nature of these reptiles. After all, snakes aren’t creatures you can typically pet or be around without simultaneously fearing for your lives. One wrong move and you might just end up with a snake bite—or worse.

However, while it’s not irrational to be afraid of snakes if you’re in the same proximity as them or they pose an immediate threat to you, for some individuals the fear doesn’t end there. Much like Matt Damon, they’re terrified of snakes and have an extreme fear of these reptiles. This is known as ophidiophobia.

Unpacking Ophidiophobia

Ophidiophobia (also known as ophiophobia) is an extreme or irrational fear of snakes. It’s believed to be the most common phobia from the vast category of herpetophobia, which refers to the fear of reptiles. Research has shown that this fear is sometimes innate and instinctual, affecting up to one-third of the population. Other scientists have argued that the fear is sparked by life-events, such as experiencing a snake attack or witnessing a particularly scary incident that involves these creatures.

How Ophidiophobia Affects Individuals

People who have this fear of snakes are likely to exhibit the following symptoms when they’re placed in a position that triggers their fear:

Increased breathing rate and heart rate
Breathlessness
Trembling & dizziness
Fixation at the object of fear
Nausea & profuse sweating
Fear of dying

Ophidiophobia isn’t only associated with snakes. People who experience this condition are also likely to fear things that aren’t directly related to the reptiles. For instance, they may be afraid of visiting pet stores where snakes are available, or avoid going on camping trips to evade any possibility of running into snakes.

In addition to this, they may also be scared of snakes even if they’re not in direct proximity. Watching documentaries or reading articles that depict these creatures can be particularly fear-inducing for them. Even the thought of being anywhere near snakes can make them severely anxious and panic-stricken.

Treating Ophidiophobia

As is the case with several other phobias, ophidiophobia can also be treated using a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, hypnosis, and counseling. These methods help in reframing the negative thoughts one may have about snakes and help them learn relaxation techniques to be able to conquer their fear.

Rekha Shrivastava at Blossom Hypnosis uses subconscious mind therapy for treating anxiety and negative perceptions associated with different phobias. She also offers Skype sessions to clients not residing in Rochester, NY. Get in touch with her now!