Acarophobia is the overwhelming fear of small biting insects.  The world is filled with a myriad of biting, stinging, and burrowing creatures that can make us victims of their particular nasty behavior which often results in itching. There is no one who enjoys being attacked by one of these creatures, but the fact that such an occurrence is possible does not become a major life focus. However, there are people who develop significant fear of the small insects and creatures that may cause us to itch. The creatures feared can include mites, ticks, scabies, fleas. The phobia may range from mild to severe and is called Acarophobia.

Acarophobia is a phobia that probably has its roots in some type of childhood experience that was felt to be traumatic and evolved into a full blown phobia The symptoms of Acarophobia can include nausea, dizziness, itching for no real reason difficulty breathing, shaking and panic attacks.

It is possible that a person does not even realize that the fears are an anxiety related phobia that may actually be related to an experience of some kind, seeing something frightening, reading something frightening to which one unconsciously attaches the fear of creatures that cause itching. A person with Acarophobia may experience the anxiety symptoms even if they simply see a small bug, insist that the environment be insect free, avoid situations where a bug might be seen.

Acarophobia can interfere a great deal with a person’s life keeping them “on alert” to keep their living area, office area, etc. bug free. They are likely to avoid any outdoor activities where a bug might lurk. This severe phobia can make it difficult if not impossible to engage in mutual relationships. It is also possible that the mere thought of these insects can result in significant anxiety symptoms. If the Acarophobic is apparent, it is possible that the children will also develop Acarophobia.

There is treatment for Acarophobia. A person must realize that the Acarophobia is not based in reality but unconscious reactions. One can select hypnotism, cognitive behavioral treatment to focus on the phobic reactions, psychotherapy to delve into the roots of the phobia. There are also online treatment programs available. In order for treatment to be successful, the Acarophobic must be committed to change and developing coping mechanisms to manage the fear.