Effective Counselling and CBT Therapy for
Fear of Being Sick in Hampshire

Counselling, CBT and EMDR for Emetophobia in Fareham

What is Emetophobia?

Emetophobia, or the fear of vomiting, is a specific phobia that can have a significant impact on daily life. It involves an intense and irrational fear of vomiting, seeing vomit, watching others vomit, or even the sensation of feeling sick. While most people may feel uneasy about vomiting, for those with emetophobia, the fear can become all-consuming, often leading to anxiety and behaviours that disrupt everyday activities.

People with emetophobia spend a considerable amount of time worrying about vomiting, even when there is no immediate threat. Just the thought of someone vomiting can trigger overwhelming distress, affecting their mental well-being. This constant anxiety can lead individuals to avoid certain situations, such as eating out, travelling, or attending social gatherings, particularly in places where they fear they may encounter someone who is unwell. Some may even go to great lengths to avoid specific foods, public spaces, or people who appear sick, leading to a restricted and isolated lifestyle.

Counselling for fear of being sick

Counselling and CBT for Emetophobia

Can Emetophobia be helped by Counselling?

The impact of emetophobia extends beyond discomfort; it can shape a person’s daily routine, influencing decisions around food, social interaction, and health. Over time, this avoidance behaviour can make the fear seem even more powerful, creating a cycle of anxiety that feels difficult to break.

Fortunately, emetophobia is treatable with the right support. Therapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and other treatments such as exposure therapy, can help individuals address the root causes of their fear and develop healthier coping strategies. Hypnotherapy and counselling are also effective options for managing associated anxiety and breaking the cycle of avoidance.

Image shows a smiling woman. Counselling for fear of being sick.

“Sophie is fantastic and has really helped me”.

— Suzanne, Southampton

Find Trusted Counselling, CBT & Hypnotherapy for Fear of Vomiting in Fareham Hampshire

What are the Symptoms of Emetophobia?

Emetophobia, or the intense fear of vomiting, often involves behaviours aimed at avoiding situations that could lead to sickness. Common symptoms include:

- Avoiding certain foods, places, or situations linked to vomiting, such as public spaces or hospitals

- Eating cautiously, sometimes limiting meals to specific locations or foods

- Over-checking and over-cooking food for safety, or discarding food before expiry

- Excessive hand washing, surface cleaning, or avoiding potentially "contaminated" areas (e.g., doorknobs, public toilets)

- Avoiding alcohol, medications, or other factors that may induce nausea

- Physical reactions, such as rapid heartbeat or tight chest, when thinking about vomiting

People with emetophobia may also experience intense mental distress, such as:

- Extreme fear of seeing or hearing others vomit

- Panic over the thought of losing control, or vomiting in public

- Constant anxiety around nausea or being in situations where escape might be difficult

Happy smiling woman. Counselling for fear of being sick

Emetophobia can often start with a traumatic experience, like severe food poisoning, vomiting in public, or witnessing someone vomit. Some cases arise without a clear trigger, suggesting genetic or environmental factors may play a role.

Regardless of the cause, effective treatments are available to help manage and overcome this phobia.

COUNSELLING HELP FOR EMETOPHOBIA IN HAMPSHIRE

Image shows a tree at sunset. Counselling for fear of being sick.

“Sophie is a very caring and reflective person who has helped me so much over the past few months. I would 100% recommend her - she put me at ease from the start and has helped me get through so much!”
Thank you!

— Victoria, Portsmouth

Overcome Emetophobia with the Support of a Counsellor or CBT Specialist in Fareham & Portsmouth

How CBT Helps with Emetophobia

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective approach that teaches you to identify and challenge distressing thoughts and behaviours. In the case of emetophobia, CBT targets the negative thought patterns linked to the fear of vomiting.

CBT for specific phobias includes gradual exposure to the feared object or situation. With emetophobia, this means gently facing thoughts or situations associated with vomiting, under the guidance of your therapist. Over time, exposure helps reduce your anxiety and enables you to develop coping strategies to manage distress independently.

Research supports the effectiveness of CBT for emetophobia. A 2016 study involving 24 participants demonstrated promising results, showing a reduction in emetophobia symptoms following CBT treatment. While this study was a preliminary step, it suggests that CBT offers real benefits for those struggling with emetophobia. Further research may strengthen these findings, but CBT remains a widely recommended treatment option.

Image shows a happy woman on a couch. Counselling or CBT for fear of being sick

Contact Us - Fareham Counselling Centre

Expert care, lasting change with Fareham counselling Centre

Expert Care, Lasting Change

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

LET US HELP YOU TODAY

Counselling at the Fareham Counselling Centre, can assist you in managing your emotions at this difficult time, and can help you get your life back on track, no matter how much pain you are feeling at this time and whatever difficulties you are facing.

Call us now on 07946 641270, or complete our online form to book an appointment with one of our Counsellors in our Fareham Practice TODAY!