Chronophobia: What is it?
Chronophobia is a type of phobia in which the greatest fear is the passage of time. It is complex because unlike other phobias where the cause can be removed, (an animal, object among others), time is always present and there is no way to get away from it.
Causes
Its specific cause is very difficult to identify, but negative experiences related to the time factor are very powerful in its development. It is believed that its causes may be the same as those of other types of phobias. They can develop in response to an external situation or stimuli.
Symptoms
A person suffering from chronophobia experiences symptoms such as:
-Increased respiratory rate.
-Headache
-Sensations of suffocation.
-Muscle tension.
-Body sweating
-Lack of concentration
-Daze
-Pupillary dilation
-Dry mouth.
-Body tremors
-Increase in heart rate.
-Dizziness, nausea or vomiting.
Without a doubt, the symptoms are mostly physical. Thus, this type of fear causes an increase in the nervous system of the brain, meaning a series of modifications in the functioning of the organism.
Treatment
Chronophobia is treated in the same way as any other type of phobia. As a result, treatment may include both medication (in most severe cases) and psychotherapy (in most cases).
Psychotherapy is very useful. To clarify, especially «Cognitive behavioral therapy». In this therapy, breathing technique and exposure technique are used.
Tips to overcome it
1.- Thinking of the worst
That is to say, if you are afraid of the passage of time, what is the worst that can happen? Not having enjoyed enough, some would say. Or not having done the things I always dreamed of doing, others would say among a great list of things. Then the answer is: enjoy the present. Live today. Make a list of the things you couldn’t do and get them going. Make your dream come true. Without excuses.
2.- One day at a time
In other words, live more slowly. Definitely. Unfortunately, we are living a very mechanized era and we don’t have time for ourselves. But nevertheless, that must change. The most important thing is you. Indulge yourself.
For example, give yourself a chance to have a coffee calmly and look out your window. Give yourself quality time. This will certainly make it easier to enjoy the passage of time.
3.- Live in the present
Above all, enjoy the present. Meditation can help you a lot in this aspect. As a result, you will understand that each moment is a unique experience. And when this is over, another one will come, and so on. That will make you lose your fear.
4.- Understand that some situations are out of our control
We must understand that we cannot control everything. For example, the actions of others. They are things that are beyond our control and we cannot change it. In the same sense, we will understand that time works in a similar way.
5.- Do not demand too much of yourself
Most of the time we grow up with ideas instilled by our parents. For example, as if you watch TV, you waste time. That is to say, any other type of activity other than work or study. However, this is wrong.
It is proven that the brain needs a break of at least 10 minutes from time to time when performing these activities. So do not demand too much of yourself. In conclusion, rest and enjoy life.
Do you know someone who suffers from this condition? Or do you suffer from it? Leave us your comments!.
