Lilapsophobia?

Have you been watching the media frenzy surrounding the latest hurricane threat?  Since the coverage began, I have found it difficult to turn away from the television and Internet.  Hurricane Sandy is expected to deliver quite a punch to the east coast and I find myself feeling anxious for those in the storm's path.  I can't imagine anxiety levels of those directly impacted.  That got me to thinking about the fear of severe weather and how it can be handled - especially in the face of a hurricane!

First of all, there is a "healthy" fear of storms inherent in all of us, thanks to our survival instinct.  Beyond that, there different types of "phobias" associated with weather conditions.  Astraphobia is the fear of thunder and lightening.  A more severe form of this is Lilapsophobia, known as the fear of tornadoes and hurricanes.  Lilapsophobia also encompasses the fear of the possibility that storms will form and become severe.

So, why do some have a healthy fear of storms while others experience fear that escalates into Astraphobia or Lilapsophobia?  Well, it depends upon the person and their experiences.  Consider someone who has survived the devastation of a severe storm.  He or she may be struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder that causes a previously healthy fear to escalate into a phobic fear. 

Another scenario involves our environment.  In some cases, a person with family or friends that are struggling with extreme fears of severe weather will develop the same fears.  Many children develop a fear of storms from their parents.  In addition, the media loves to exploit our healthy fears of severe weather.  Turn on your television and I have no doubt that you will find at least one channel covering some type of weather event with a sensational spin on it.  Finally, think about all of the movies and television shows that are based on catastrophic weather events.  No wonder a little thunder sends many of us into hiding! 

How can we find out if it is a phobia as opposed to a healthy fear of severe weather?  The symptoms are mainly behavioral and include:

• Constant checking the weather reports and maps for potential storms.
• When a storm develops, constant tracking of the storm's path.
• Fear of being alone when severe weather is approaching.
• Panicking when a storm develops.
• Restricting daily activities due to the potential for severe weather - even when it is sunny and clear outside.

What can be done to lessen the effects of Astraphobia or Lilapsophobia?  What can you do if you, or someone you care about, is suffering from Astraphobia or Lilapsophobia? 

• Be prepared - but don't go overboard!  Learn about the weather patterns in your area and develop a storm readiness plan for you and your family.  
• Desensitation is another option.  Learn to recognize rational preparation as opposed to phobic reactions.  Allow others to check the weather and trust what they report to you.  This will help alleviate the pressure to obsessively check the weather reports yourself.  

In addition, there are many therapeutic alternatives available to help overcome Astraphobia or Lilapsophobia.  If you think you are suffering from these, or any other phobias, please contact a mental health professional that will help you work through the issues and get back on the path of health living. 


For those impacted by the recent storms, St. Louis, Missouri is thinking about you and sending good vibes!