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Acrophobia increasing with age
I am 35, Male, who is afraid of Heights from long time. However, this fear is increasing with my age, which is causing disturbance in my personal life. I avoid doing activities which involve new height. I am very physically very active. Can this be cured at all? Any help is much appreciated.
Answers (7)
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This can be resolved by undergoing Psychotherapy and a professional Psychologist who can help you overcome this through a supportive way by providing you proper techniques in a Therapeutic way....
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Consult Psychologist
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undergo a complete course of treatment
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Kindly consult psychotherapist
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Sanjana Purdhani
Psychologist
2 yrs exp
Delhi
Fear of heights (Acrophobia) is quite common, but when it starts interfering with daily life and limits experiences, itâs worth addressing. Since youâve noticed it worsening over time, it might be due to heightened awareness, past experiences, or anxiety-related factors. The good news is that this fear can be managed and even overcome with the right approach.
Next Steps
Gradual Exposure Therapy: Slowly exposing yourself to controlled height-related situations can help desensitize the fear. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identifying and restructuring fearful thoughts can help reduce avoidance behaviors. Relaxation & Breathing Techniques: Deep breathing and mindfulness exercises can help manage anxiety when facing heights. Professional Consultation: Seeking therapy from a trained psychologist can provide structured techniques tailored to your specific fear.
Health Tips
â Start smallâstand on a balcony or take an elevator to higher floors and observe your reactions. â Use virtual reality exposure therapy if available, as it helps in a safe, controlled manner. â Challenge negative thoughts: Instead of thinking, "Iâll fall or lose balance," replace it with, "I am safe, and I can handle this situation." â Engage in confidence-building physical activities, such as rock climbing (with safety measures), to increase comfort.
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Ms. Neha Sachdev
Psychologist
11 yrs exp
Delhi
Hi
Acrophobia is one of the most common phobias. And yes it does increase with age.
Consult a psychologist where she would dig up your past, as to when, where and how this phobia started. What are your thoughts and feelings behind this fear.
Gradual exposure to heights- exposing to least height to high heights will help you cope with the fear. Of course this will be done as per your comfort.
Since it is hampering your daily routine, consultation would need priority.
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Consult
Happy to help
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Ms. Rizwana Parvin T M
Counselling Psychologist
7 yrs exp
Coimbatore
Yes fear of heights can be cured by CBT....and therapies and breathing exercises.... Imagine standing in the brick which 5cm tall and if you are scared of such small height breathing slowly will calm you down... Afterwards stand in a chair ... Practise breathing, then a small ladder and practise breathing ... gradually face your fear along with breathing exercises... You ll be able to overcome with practise.....
If hill stations are overwhelming then avoid for now.
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Ms. Pooja Gupta
Counselling Psychologist
8 yrs exp
Delhi
Hi,
Yes, fear of heights, known as acrophobia, can indeed be addressed and managed effectively. Since this fear is increasing and impacting your daily life, itâs important to consider seeking help from a mental health professional, particularly one who specializes in anxiety disorders or phobias. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common and effective treatment that can help you challenge and change the negative thought patterns associated with your fear. Gradual exposure therapy is another approach where you can face your fear in small, manageable steps, slowly increasing your exposure to heights over time in a controlled and supportive manner. Furthermore, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness can help you manage anxiety when confronted with heights. Engage in physical activities that can help build confidence in your bodyâs capabilities, and consider joining support groups where you can connect with others who share similar experiences. Remember, with the right support and strategies, it is possible to reduce your fear and improve your quality of life.
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consult
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seek help
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Ms. Smriti
Counselling Psychologist
18 yrs exp
Bangalore
Connect with the psychologist to resolve inner conflicts.
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counseling.
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connect
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