Having phobias are not something that you can laugh about. Hence, it is a severe feeling of fear of something. A person with this condition might feel that they are always in danger. It may happen when they see or around the thing that makes them very scared. For instance, the fear of cat or Ailurophobia is one. Also, it is the same as with fear of spiders and others. Although many people love cats, for some, they think it can cause them danger.
It is good to know that you do not have to live in fear your whole life. Hence, it is essential to find the right solution to this problem. It is true, especially if it is already affecting your daily life. If you are avoiding things and do not want to go out, you should ask for help.
1. The Importance of Finding the Cure
The feeling of fear is a natural reaction of the body. Hence, it can happen when it senses danger. Afterward, the body will experience changes in its reaction, like a faster heartbeat and shaking. Also, there is an intense need to go away and run faster. Therefore, this reaction is also known as the “fight or flight” reflex o the body. A person can choose to fight what makes them fear or go away.
The truth is cats are very friendly animals, and they will not hurt people. However, with fear of cats, the brain will tell you that you are in danger even if you are not. The feeling of fear and anxiety is not good for overall health. People with this problem may feel tired and depressed every day. Cats are always around the neighborhood because it is a common house pet. Therefore, having this fear will tire a person.
2. Diagnosis for Proper Treatment
If you suspect that you have it, it is better to see a doctor or therapist for a proper diagnosis. A general doctor can ask you to go an expert with dealing with Ailurophobia and other types of fear. A doctor will tell you that you have it if it is causing a negative impact on your daily life. You may be diagnosed with it if:
- seeing or thinking of cats makes you very nervous
- you are avoiding cats wherever you go
- spend a day worrying about cats
- you are already experiencing signs for more than six months
3. Possible Treatments
Having a phobia of cats for some might be easy, so they do not need treatments. If it is easier for you to avoid cats, it’s good for you. Also, if you are living a normal life every day, you can continue without treatments. However, if avoiding it is impossible, it is good to ask for professional help. For example, if you live in a neighborhood with lots of cats or a partner who loves a cat, it is good to find the best treatment.
4. Exposure Therapy
The most common way to overcome any fear is to face it. Hence, this therapy will slowly introduce you to your fear. Firstly, looking at pictures of cats can help you to feel comfortable. Afterward, you can move on to watching some movies or videos with cats. Also, you may hold a toy that looks like a real cat. Lastly, if you feel confident enough, you may sit beside a real cat.
Moreover, these activities will turn your fear into a relaxing activity. Therefore, you will think cats as a friend and not an enemy.
5. Hypnotherapy
This activity is a little different because you will only use your imagination. Also, a therapist will guide you to do meditation exercises. Hence, it will calm and relax your brain and muscles. During the activity, you must answer some questions. The doctor will ask questions about your phobia of cats. Answering questions can guide them on the level of their fear and the best solution to it.
6. How it Start?
Furthermore, doctors will try to find out how and when your fear started. Hence, there are lots of reasons why a person develops serious fear. At first, it might be very hard for you, especially if it is a bad experience.
Fear can start during childhood. For instance, a scratch or bite from a cat may be the reason for your fear. Therefore, you can carry this bad experience until you grow into an adult. No matter what causes it, it is good to talk about it openly to a professional. A family member with a fear of cats can pass it on to other members of the family.
