What You Need to Know About Arachnophobia

• An evolutionary response: Research suggests that arachnophobia or a general aversion to spiders is hard-wired as an ancestral survival technique.
• Cultural and/or religious beliefs: Some individuals within certain cultural or religious groups seem to have phobias that stem from these influences. making culture and religion potential factors in phobia development.
• Genetic or family influences: Family environmental factors may also influence the development of phobias. If a parent has a specific phobia to something, a child may pick up on that fear and develop a phobic response to it.

Like other specific phobias, arachnophobia is most commonly treated with therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral techniques.

• Cognitive reframing: This method helps you shift the way you look at something so you no longer perceive it as dangerous or stressful. This may eventually change your physical reaction to a triggering stimulus, such as seeing a spider.
• systematic desensitization: In this method, you employ relaxation techniques and then confront your fears from the least fear-producing to the most.

If you are experiencing symptoms of arachnophobia, there are ways you can cope.

• Relaxation techniques: Relaxation methods such as deep breathing, mindfulness, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation.
• Self-care: Prioritizing your self-care may help reduce your overall levels of stress and anxiety. Self-care may include practicing good sleep hygiene, exercising, and connecting with supportive friends and family.
• Gradual self-exposure: If you are comfortable doing so, you may consider gradually exposing yourself to spiders, while simultaneously practicing relaxation techniques.

A diagnosis for a specific phobia requires that the symptoms be present for at least six months and cause significant distress or a disruption to your life and well-being.

Your doctor or mental health clinician may ask you questions about your symptoms, their intensity, and their duration. They may also take a medical history, ask about your current coping skills, and find out what your treatment goals are.