Among the most frequent phobias that people suffer from acrophobia. Related to him Fear of heightsthis type of phobia is often confused with vertigo, but has a series of particular characteristics to be considered as such. It is worth distinguishing between the two so as not to deceive each other, in case we or any of our loved ones suffer.

Similarly, it is necessary to properly identify this type of phobia to learn to manage it. For that reason, if they give you Fear heightsyou may have acrophobiaand you must know their characteristics To get out of doubt and know how to face it.

What is acrophobia?

Person at heights/Photo: Pixabay

The term acrophobia It comes from the Greek. It is formed by the roots ἄκρος either akroswhose meaning is height, and φοβία (phobia), which means fear. In this way, textually it means Fear of heights.

He Fear of heights or acrophobia is considered a Anxiety disorder. This is revealed in the one who suffers in a Instant fear and intense when it is in places with high heights, such as bridges, windows in high floors, balconies, cliffs or cliffs.

In any elevated environment, regardless of the security that exists in it, who suffers it begins to meet badly, presents sweating, Tachycardiabreathing difficulties, tremors, muscle tension and a Irrational fear of dying. Fear of heights can lead to fainting and loss of knowledge.

Consequences of acrophobia

Woman sitting on the floor/Photo: Pixabay

Therefore, he who suffers from acrophobia avoids high places and perform all the activities in which he can be exposed to them. In this way, this phobia It ends up affecting daily life, both at work and personal level.

Thus, the acrophobic will avoid going to elevatorshe won’t want to go to viewpoints Neither to cliffs nor climbing stairs from many steps, will give rodeos to avoid Bridges and Crystal soilsand will close your eyes frequently in those situations that you consider in danger for being in a high place.

It is worth noting that the first indications of suffering acrophobia They usually occur in childhood, around 10 years, when it is expressed with kicks, tantrums and screams being exposed to the situation that generates it. However, it is also possible that it develops at any time in life, like other phobias.

Origin of acrophobia

Mirador/Photo: Pixabay

What is the reason why a person suffers acrophobia? It is necessary to take into account several factors. It is considered that there is biological predisposition to develop the Fear of heightsbut it is also true that External environmental factors They have a lot to do when it becomes a real phobia.

In this way, the Fear of heights either acrophobia is usually related to Traumatic experiencesespecially in childhood, among which are abuse, abuse, death or loss of parents, or some situation related to heights.

Differences between vertigo and acrophobia

Caracol staircase/photo: Unspash

In no case should acrophobia be confused with the vertigosince we often speak indistinctly of one or the other, although they have nothing to do. And is that the Origin of vertigo It is exclusively physical.

In fact, it is experienced as a Sensation of dizziness in which everything revolves around one, either to the get up abruptly of the bed, being lying down, browse or by putting a foot on the ground, among the most frequent situations in which it occurs.

He vertigo is caused by some Physiological problem concrete. That is why it is possible to talk about central vertigowhen it is produced by some brain problem, and Peripheral vertigowhen it arises from some problem linked to the inner ear. If you think you suffer or experience vertigo attacks frequently, it is best to consult your header.

Treatment for acrophobia

Woman in Capilano Suspension Bridge, Vancouver/Photo: UNSPLASH

But the Origin of acrophobia It is psychological, so the treatment For it it is completely different, as with the rest of phobias. In this way, it is possible to combat acrophobia and learn to manage it so that it does not involve a detriment in the quality of life of those who suffer from it. The help of Psychologists either Psychotherapists.

For that reason, if you think you can suffer acrophobia it is necessary to go to professionals. These usually use the Cognitive behavioral therapy and the Exposure therapy To address it, always depending on what is most suitable for each one. Thus, a series of strategies and guidelines that will contribute to living with the Fear of heights without having to stop enjoying a hundred percent of life. Without a doubt, it is worth it!