Monophobia is the irrational fear of being alone.
The fear is so intense that it impacts daily functioning.
The fear is so intense that it impacts daily functioning.
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Loneliness itself, however, can be a component of many mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression.
Situational phobias occur under conditions that are generally not threatening or concerning to most people.
When people with monophobia are faced with the idea of isolation, they’ll likely experience symptoms ofsevere anxiety.
This response is out of proportion to the risk or danger actually posed by the situation.
Symptoms
Like most phobias, the fear of being alone has both mental and physical signs.
People with monophobia will experience symptoms when alone or faced with the idea of being alone.
The fear of being alone can cause symptoms such as:
What is loneliness?
Loneliness describes the unwanted feeling of being alone or socially isolated from others.
People who are lonely desire social contact but have limited personal relationships with others.
Causes
Phobias trigger a person’s stress response, also known as the fight-or-flight response.
Related Conditions
Mental health conditions besides monophobia can also lead to a fear of being alone.
A mental health professional or healthcare provider can ask detailed questions about lifestyle and fears to rule them out.
This can help you get to a place where you feel comfortable being by yourself.
Primarily, treatment involves different types of therapy.
Although medication is available to control symptoms, it’s not always necessary.
It can help you better recognize and change distorted and maladaptive (negative) thoughts and behaviors.
It may also change how you ultimately feel.
Treatment for monophobia includes different types of therapy and, if necessary, medication.
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