{"formatVersion":"1.1","id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia","path":"/library/athazagoraphobia","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia","title":"Athazagoraphobia","family":"Library detail","description":"Athazagoraphobia is the specific phobia of being forgotten or forgetting someone or something. Symptoms can be treated with therapy and self-help techniques.","language":"en-US","access":{"audience":"public","indexable":true},"provenance":{"sourceUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia","wordpressId":"673","contentCompleteness":"complete","dateScope":"original-source"},"authors":[{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/erin-george#person","name":"Erin L. George","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/erin-george"}],"reviewer":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair#person","name":"Morgan Blair","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair"},"dates":{"datePublished":"2023-10-25T10:01:01Z","dateModified":"2025-09-04T13:08:03Z","lastReviewed":"2023-10-25"},"content":{"html":"<nav aria-label=\"Breadcrumb\" class=\"breadcrumbs\"><ol><li><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/\">Home</a></li><li><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library\">Library</a></li><li><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/phobias\">Phobias</a></li><li><span aria-current=\"page\">Athazagoraphobia</span></li></ol></nav><div class=\"article-page article-standard\" data-library-standard=\"\"><div class=\"article-main-grid\"><header class=\"article-heading\"><h1>Athazagoraphobia</h1><p class=\"article-inline-credits\"><span>Written by <a class=\"article-credit-person\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/erin-george\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"22\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/3e6614c23a1205b91bc9e56a.jpg\" width=\"22\" decoding=\"async\">Erin L. George</a></span><span>Medically reviewed by <a class=\"article-credit-person\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"22\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/9f1be5c5cc2b412cfab5f6cc.jpg\" width=\"22\" decoding=\"async\">Morgan Blair</a></span></p><div class=\"article-dates\"><span>Published on <time datetime=\"2023-10-25T10:01:01Z\">October 25, 2023</time></span><span aria-hidden=\"true\"> · </span><span>Updated on <time datetime=\"2025-09-04T13:08:03Z\">September 4, 2025</time></span></div></header><div class=\"article-jumpbar\"></div><div class=\"article-layout\"><div class=\"article-reading\"><article class=\"prose\" id=\"article-content\"><div class=\"article-intro\" data-source-field=\"hero\"><p>We all hope to be remembered for our positive qualities by friends, families, and other people we’ve connected with in life. If given the choice, few of us would choose to be forgotten by the people we’ve touched in our lives.</p><p>For some people, the fear of being forgotten is so persistent, intense, and irrational that it can be deemed a phobia⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 1: Barnhill, J. W. (2023b, August 30). Specific phobias. MSD Manual Consumer Version. MSD Manuals. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"1\">[1]</a></sup>.</p><p>Athazagoraphobia is an uncommon and specific phobia characterized by an irrational fear of being forgotten, ignored, or overlooked by others. It can also refer to the fear of forgetting another person or thing.</p></div><figure class=\"article-feature\"><img alt=\"A woman sits thoughtfully beside a window with her hand near her face.\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"799\" loading=\"eager\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/b43b014c9377a4f2a2f71786.webp\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"/assets/responsive/d07181c311a5330c39d34681.webp 800w, /assets/optimized/b43b014c9377a4f2a2f71786.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 1200px\"></figure><section aria-labelledby=\"key-takeaways\" class=\"article-takeaways\"><h2 id=\"key-takeaways\">Key takeaways</h2><ul><li>Athazagoraphobia describes an intense fear of being forgotten or of forgetting people or things.</li><li>The fear can cause marked anxiety and physical symptoms, with possible contributions from personal experiences and broader anxiety vulnerability.</li><li>Professional assessment and psychological approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy can help address the fear and its effects.</li></ul></section><span id=\"what-is-athazagoraphobia-athazagoraphobia-is-an-intense-constant-fear-of-being-forgotten-or-forgetting-someone-or-something-like-other-phobias-athazagoraphobia-can-feel-extremely-disruptive-with-sufferers-often-experiencing-intense-anxiety-and-distress-at-the-thought-of-fading-into-obscurity-or-being-abandoned-by-those-they-care-about\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"what-is-athazagoraphobia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"what-is-athazagoraphobia\">What is athazagoraphobia?</h2><p>\nAthazagoraphobia is an intense, constant fear of being forgotten or forgetting someone or something. Like other <a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/phobias\" class=\"article-inline-link\" data-context-link=\"353\">phobias</a>, athazagoraphobia can feel extremely disruptive, with sufferers often experiencing intense anxiety and distress at the thought of fading into obscurity or being abandoned by those they care about.\n</p><p>People with athazagoraphobia may experience both physical and mental symptoms when confronted with the idea of being forgotten or forgetting others. This distress can sometimes even lead to an anxiety attack.</p><p>The fear of being forgotten can also be related to people’s anxieties about developing dementia, with recent studies showing ‘dementia worry’ to be a widespread phenomenon across Western societies⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#dementia-worry-psychological-examination-unexplored-phenomenon\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 2: Kessler, E., Bowen, C. E., Baer, M. T., Frölich, L., &amp; Wahl, H. (2012). Dementia worry: a psychological examination of an unexplored phenomenon. European Journal of Ageing, 9(4), 275–284. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"2\">[2]</a></sup>.</p><p>As the prevalence of dementia has increased across the nation, so has peoples’ exposure to the disease and individuals of all ages are increasingly concerned that they themselves may develop dementia.</p><p>\n‘Dementia worry’ can vary in intensity from mild to severe – the latter being encompassed by ‘athazagoraphobia’⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#dementia-worry-psychological-examination-unexplored-phenomenon\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 2: Kessler, E., Bowen, C. E., Baer, M. T., Frölich, L., &amp; Wahl, H. (2012). Dementia worry: a psychological examination of an unexplored phenomenon. European Journal of Ageing, 9(4), 275–284. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"2\">[2]</a></sup>. It is a relatively unknown topic that requires further research so it can be better understood from a psychological and cultural perspective.\n</p><span id=\"symptoms-of-athazagoraphobia-like-other-phobias-athazagoraphobia-can-present-through-a-wide-range-of-symptoms-both-physical-and-mental-these-symptoms-vary-depending-on-the-severity-of-the-phobia-with-most-people-experiencing-a-base-symptom-of-general-anxiety\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"symptoms-of-athazagoraphobia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"symptoms-of-athazagoraphobia\">Symptoms of athazagoraphobia</h2><p>\nLike other phobias, athazagoraphobia can present through a wide range of symptoms, both physical and mental. These symptoms vary depending on the severity of the phobia, with most people experiencing a base symptom of general anxiety⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#national-institute-mental-health-nimh\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Specific phobia. (n.d.). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"3\">[3]</a></sup>. Mental symptoms may include:\n</p><ul>\n<li>An all-consuming fear or anxiety when you are ignored or forgotten - or believe that you could be forgotten down the line.</li>\n<li>Feeling intensely anxious at the notion of being forgotten.</li>\n<li>Feeling hypervigilant towards signs of perceived neglect or indifference from others – regardless of other people’s intent or the reality of a situation.</li>\n<li>Afeeling of impending doom when contemplating a reality where you have lost your memory or have been forgotten by others.</li>\n<li>Constantly seeking reassurance, validation,or attention from friends and family to appease your fear of being forgotten.</li>\n<li>Depression</li>\n<li>Isolating yourself from social situations</li>\n<li>An inability to focus.</li>\n<li>Difficulty sleeping</li>\n</ul><p>\nPhysical symptoms can include:\n</p><ul>\n<li>Panic attacks</li>\n<li>Body aches</li>\n<li>Sweating</li>\n<li>Nausea</li>\n<li>Dizziness</li>\n<li>Restlessness</li>\n<li>Elevated heart rate</li>\n<li>High blood pressure</li>\n<li>Localized pains in certain areas of the body</li>\n</ul><span id=\"causes-of-athazagoraphobia-the-exact-cause-of-athazagoraphobia-like-many\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"causes-of-athazagoraphobia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"causes-of-athazagoraphobia\">Causes of athazagoraphobia</h2><p>\nThe exact cause of athazagoraphobia, like many <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/specific-phobias\">specific phobias</a>, can be difficult to pinpoint and is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.\n</p><p>People generally have their phobias triggered by certain situations, experiences, or objects, and while they recognize their response is irrational and excessive, it does not make their experience any less distressing⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 1: Barnhill, J. W. (2023b, August 30). Specific phobias. MSD Manual Consumer Version. MSD Manuals. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"1\">[1]</a></sup>.</p><p>\nPotential factors that contribute to the onset of athazagoraphobia include:\n</p><ul>\n<li><strong>Genetic predisposition:</strong> There is evidence to suggest that specific phobias, including athazagoraphobia, can have a genetic component⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#untangling-genetic-networks-panic-phobia-fear-anxiety\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 4: Villafuerte, S., &amp; Burmeister, M. (2003). Untangling genetic networks of panic, phobia, fear and anxiety. Genome biology, 4(8), 224. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"4\">[4]</a></sup>. If there is a family history of anxiety disorders or phobias, an individual may be more susceptible to developing such fears.</li>\n<li><strong>Parental influence: </strong>Observing and imitating the behavior of parents or caregivers who exhibit similar fears or anxieties can contribute to the development of athazagoraphobia.</li>\n<li><strong>Traumatic event: </strong>A person may have suffered a traumatic experience such as being abandoned or the tragic loss of a loved one, which could contribute to them developing athazagoraphobia⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>.</li>\n<li><strong>Loved one with dementia: </strong>Being exposed to, or caring for, a person with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease may lead to the development of athazagoraphobia⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#fear-alzheimers-disease-mediating-effects-anxiety-subjective-memory-complaints\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 5: Norman, A. L., Woodard, J. L., Calamari, J. E., Gross, E., Pontarelli, N. K., Socha, J., DeJong, B., &amp; Armstrong, K. (2018). The fear of Alzheimer’s disease: mediating effects of anxiety on subjective memory complaints. Aging &amp; Mental Health, 24(2), 308–314. Taylor &amp; Francis.\" data-reference-number=\"5\">[5]</a></sup>. Alternatively, someone with a dementia-related disease may suffer irrational, crippling anxiety about being forgotten by their loved ones as their condition deteriorates.</li>\n<li><strong>Long-term stress: </strong>Stress is a common trigger of anxiety and depression. It can compromise your ability to cope with situations you feel uncomfortable in, causing you to spiral⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>. This may make you feel anxious about being in those situations again leading you to isolate yourself. If this happens over a long period, it can develop into a phobia, such as athazagoraphobia.</li>\n</ul><p>\nYou may feel identifying the cause for your own phobia could prove beneficial, though there is a possibility you conclude there is no simple explanation.\nPeople tend to avoid the stimulus or situation that triggers their phobia, but this can deepen your fear causing you to withdraw more and more⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>. </p><p>While being in a situation involving your phobia can feel distressing, it can be beneficial to living with your phobia long term. There is a range of professional help options that can help you confront your phobia.\n</p><span id=\"diagnosing-athazagoraphobia-diagnosing-athazagoraphobia-like-any-other-phobia-would-start-with-an-evaluation-from-a-mental-health-professional-such-as-a-psychiatrist-psychologist-or-therapist-with-a-specialty-in-phobias\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"diagnosing-athazagoraphobia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"diagnosing-athazagoraphobia\">Diagnosing athazagoraphobia</h2><p>\nDiagnosing athazagoraphobia, like any other phobia, would start with an evaluation from a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist with a specialty in phobias.\n</p><p>After a thorough discussion of your symptoms, feelings, and experiences related to the phobia, the mental health professional will refer to the diagnostic criteria outlined in the <a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/dsm-5\" class=\"article-inline-link\" data-context-link=\"353\">Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders</a> (DSM-V).</p><p>\nWhile athazagoraphobia is not regarded as a mental health condition by the DSM-V currently, it would fall underneath the clinical category for specific phobias. Your mental health provider will refer to the manual’s criteria for phobias when considering with to diagnose you with one:⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 1: Barnhill, J. W. (2023b, August 30). Specific phobias. MSD Manual Consumer Version. MSD Manuals. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"1\">[1]</a></sup>\n</p><ul>\n<li>The fear must be persistent and last for six or more months.</li>\n<li>The fear causes significant distress and impairs functioning.</li>\n<li>The fear concerns a specific stimulus – e.g., a situation or object.</li>\n<li>The fear is out of proportion to the danger posed by the stimulus.</li>\n<li>The fear occurs immediately when confronted by the stimulus.</li>\n<li>The fear cannot be better explained by a separate mental health condition.</li>\n</ul><p>\nIn some cases, the mental health professional may use standardized questionnaires or assessments to further evaluate the severity of your phobia and its impact on your life.\n</p><span id=\"self-care-for-athazagoraphobia-there-are-some-steps-you-can-take-to-try-and-manage-your-athazagoraphobia-they-may-help-you-cope-with-symptoms-relating-to-your-fear-of-being-forgotten-you-may-find-these-steps-helpful-but-it-s-important-to-stress-that-these-are-not-a-cure-for-athazagoraphobia-coping-with-the-fear-of-being-forgotten-is-a-process-and-it-may-take-time-to-find-the-right-combination-of\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"self-care-for-athazagoraphobia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"self-care-for-athazagoraphobia\">Self-care for athazagoraphobia</h2><p>\nThere are some steps you can take to try and manage your athazagoraphobia. They may help you cope with symptoms relating to your fear of being forgotten. </p><p>You may find these steps helpful, but it's important to stress that these are not a cure for athazagoraphobia.\nCoping with the fear of being forgotten is a process and it may take time to find the right combination of <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/self-help\">self-care strategies</a> that work for you.\n</p><h3 id=\"confide-in-a-friend-or-loved-one-talk-about-your-experience-with-athazagoraphobia-with-a-friend-partner-or-loved-one\">Confide in a friend or loved one</h3><p>\nTalk about your experience with athazagoraphobia with a friend, partner, or loved one⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>. If they can understand your situation, they are more likely to empathize and know how you want to be supported.\n</p><p>If nothing else, having someone listen to you and show they care about your plight can comforting. If you find it hard to talk about your phobia, try writing it down as this may help you organize your thoughts more clearly.\n</p><h3 id=\"relaxation-techniques-there-are-a-breadth-of-relaxation-techniques-that-can-help-you-manage-your-athazagoraphobia-practicing-breathing-exercises-meditation-mindfulness-and-daily-stretching-can-help-you-manage-triggers-and-generally-alleviate-stress\">Relaxation techniques</h3><p>\nThere are a breadth of relaxation techniques that can help you manage your athazagoraphobia. Practicing breathing exercises, meditation, mindfulness, and daily stretching can help you manage triggers and generally alleviate stress⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>.\n</p><p>If you feel a sense of panic building, you can call upon the breath work you’ve practiced and handle the impending <a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/panic-attacks-in-anxiety-disorders\" class=\"article-inline-link\" data-context-link=\"353\">panic attack</a> more effectively.</p><p>\nManaging panic and anxiety brought on by your phobia can feel immensely challenging, but these relaxation techniques can help you feel more in control of your trigger situation or object⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>.\n</p><section aria-label=\"Subject matter expert\" class=\"article-expert article-expert-inline\" data-expert-kind=\"related\" data-expert-layout=\"standard\"><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Subject matter expert</p><div class=\"article-expert-identity\"><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/pat-ladouceur\" class=\"card-identity-photo\" aria-label=\"Pat LaDouceur  Ph.D.\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/11551d5d254dde5fa8b1fa65.jpg\" width=\"64\" decoding=\"async\"></a><h2><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/pat-ladouceur\">Pat LaDouceur <span class=\"expert-credentials\">Ph.D.</span></a></h2></div><p class=\"article-expert-focus\">Anxiety, panic, and relationship stress</p></section><h3 id=\"support-groups-both-in-person-and-online-support-groups-can-be-beneficial-to-sufferers-of-phobias-especially-uncommon-ones-like-athazagoraphobia-it-can-feel-validating-and-comforting-to-know-you-are-not-alone\">Support groups</h3><p>\nBoth in-person and online support groups can be beneficial to sufferers of phobias, especially uncommon ones like athazagoraphobia. It can feel validating and comforting to know you are not alone⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>. You can share coping strategies and helpful resources with one another.\n</p><p>Online <a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/support-groups\" class=\"article-inline-link\" data-context-link=\"353\">support groups</a> can be extra handy for people who aren’t able to leave home regularly, or who find it hard to speak to others face-to-face.</p><p>\nYou can locate both in-person and online groups in your area through a quick Google search. Most groups will set out criteria for membership, meeting times, and other useful information online.\n</p><span id=\"athazagoraphobia-treatment-there-are-several-ways-to-treat-phobias-typically-involving-a-combination-of-therapeutic-approaches-and-some-psychiatric-medications\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"athazagoraphobia-treatment\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"athazagoraphobia-treatment\">Athazagoraphobia treatment</h2><p>\nThere are several ways to treat phobias, typically involving a combination of therapeutic approaches and some psychiatric medications.\n</p><h3 id=\"exposure-therapy-this-is-the-frontline-treatment-for-phobias-including-athazagoraphobia\">Exposure therapy</h3><p>\nThis is the frontline treatment for phobias, including athazagoraphobia⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 1: Barnhill, J. W. (2023b, August 30). Specific phobias. MSD Manual Consumer Version. MSD Manuals. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"1\">[1]</a></sup>. Exposure therapy involves gradually exposing people to whatever triggers their phobia. This is initially done in the controlled setting of a therapist’s office, but as a patient progresses in their treatment plan, they are given exposure tasks to complete at home. </p><p>Patients are taught breathing techniques to use before and during exposure to manage distress⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 1: Barnhill, J. W. (2023b, August 30). Specific phobias. MSD Manual Consumer Version. MSD Manuals. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"1\">[1]</a></sup>.\nExposure therapy helps over 90% of people who practice it accurately and is typically the only treatment needed for many phobias.\n</p><h3 id=\"cognitive-behavioral-therapy-cbt\">Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)</h3><p><a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/cognitive-behavioral-therapy\">CBT</a> is another effective treatments for specific phobias, including athazagoraphobia. It helps individuals identify and challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs related to their fear⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>.\nThe aim is for a patient to learn why it is they fear forgetting or being forgotten. Understanding this can help a person with athazagoraphobia modify their behavior towards their triggers.\n</p><h3 id=\"medications-medications-aren-t-typically-prescribed-to-people-seeking-to-overcome-their-phobias-however\">Medications</h3><p>\nMedications aren’t typically prescribed to people seeking to overcome their phobias. However, <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/benzodiazepines\">benzodiazepines</a>, used to treat anxiety, are an exception⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 1: Barnhill, J. W. (2023b, August 30). Specific phobias. MSD Manual Consumer Version. MSD Manuals. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"1\">[1]</a></sup>. This will not help a person eliminate their athazagoraphobia, but it may temporarily manage anxiety related to the condition.\n</p><p>Medication would not typically be prescribed on its own – it would accompany a therapeutic approach.</p><aside class=\"article-support\" data-article-therapist=\"athazagoraphobia\" aria-label=\"Find support that fits you\"><div><h2>Find support that fits you</h2><p>Explore people and care options near you.</p></div><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/therapists?specialty=Phobias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Find care</a></aside></article><div class=\"article-endmatter\"><section class=\"article-sources\" data-reference-list=\"\" data-reference-style=\"author-date-title-source\" data-source-references=\"\" id=\"references\"><h2 id=\"references-2\">References</h2><ol><li id=\"specific-phobias\" value=\"1\" data-reference-number=\"1\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Barnhill, J. W. (2023b, August 30). <em class=\"reference-title\">Specific phobias.</em> MSD Manual Consumer Version. <a href=\"https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/anxiety-and-stress-related-disorders/specific-phobias?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">MSD Manuals</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"dementia-worry-psychological-examination-unexplored-phenomenon\" value=\"2\" data-reference-number=\"2\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Kessler, E., Bowen, C. E., Baer, M. T., Frölich, L., &amp; Wahl, H. (2012). <em class=\"reference-title\">Dementia worry: a psychological examination of an unexplored phenomenon.</em> European Journal of Ageing, 9(4), 275–284. <a href=\"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10433-012-0242-8?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Springer</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"national-institute-mental-health-nimh\" value=\"3\" data-reference-number=\"3\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Specific phobia. (n.d.). <em class=\"reference-title\">National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).</em> <a href=\"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/specific-phobia?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">National Institute of Mental Health</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"untangling-genetic-networks-panic-phobia-fear-anxiety\" value=\"4\" data-reference-number=\"4\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Villafuerte, S., &amp; Burmeister, M. (2003). <em class=\"reference-title\">Untangling genetic networks of panic, phobia, fear and anxiety.</em> Genome biology, 4(8), 224. <a href=\"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/gb-2003-4-8-224?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Springer</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"fear-alzheimers-disease-mediating-effects-anxiety-subjective-memory-complaints\" value=\"5\" data-reference-number=\"5\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Norman, A. L., Woodard, J. L., Calamari, J. E., Gross, E., Pontarelli, N. K., Socha, J., DeJong, B., &amp; Armstrong, K. (2018). <em class=\"reference-title\">The fear of Alzheimer’s disease: mediating effects of anxiety on subjective memory complaints.</em> Aging &amp; Mental Health, 24(2), 308–314. <a href=\"https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13607863.2018.1534081?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Taylor &amp; Francis</a>.</li><li id=\"mind\" value=\"6\" data-reference-number=\"6\" data-reference-format=\"393\"><em class=\"reference-title\">What causes phobias?</em> (n.d.). Mind. <a href=\"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/phobias/understanding-phobias/?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Mind</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li></ol></section><section class=\"article-medical article-panel\"><h2 id=\"medical-content\">Medical Content</h2><p><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs\">The Clinical Affairs Team</a> at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the <a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing/editorial-policy\">Editorial Policy</a>.</p></section><section class=\"article-about article-panel\"><h2 id=\"about-mentalhealth-com\">About MentalHealth.com</h2><p>MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.</p><div class=\"article-contributors\"><section class=\"article-bio\"><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/erin-george\" class=\"card-identity-photo\" aria-label=\"Erin L. George\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/3e6614c23a1205b91bc9e56a.jpg\" width=\"64\" decoding=\"async\"></a><div><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Author</p><h3 id=\"erin-l-george\"><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/erin-george\">Erin L. George</a></h3><p class=\"article-bio-credentials\">MFT</p><p>Erin L. George, MFT, holds a master's degree in family therapy with a focus on group dynamics in high-risk families. As a court-appointed special advocate for children, she is dedicated to helping families rebuild relationships and improve their mental and behavioral health.</p><dl><div><dt>Published</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2023-10-25T10:01:01Z\">October 25, 2023</time></dd></div><div><dt>Updated</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2025-09-04T13:08:03Z\">September 4, 2025</time></dd></div></dl></div></section><section class=\"article-bio\"><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair\" class=\"card-identity-photo\" aria-label=\"Morgan Blair, M.A.\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/9f1be5c5cc2b412cfab5f6cc.jpg\" width=\"64\" decoding=\"async\"></a><div><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Medical Reviewer</p><h3 id=\"morgan-blair\"><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair\">Morgan Blair, M.A.</a></h3><p class=\"article-bio-credentials\">MA, LPCC</p><p>Morgan Blair is a licensed therapist, writer and medical reviewer, holding a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University.</p><dl><div><dt>Reviewed</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2023-10-25\">October 25, 2023</time></dd></div></dl></div></section></div></section><section aria-label=\"Related community\" class=\"article-topic-community article-topic-community-end\"><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/community/phobias\" class=\"card-identity-photo\" aria-label=\"Phobias\"><img alt=\"\" class=\"topic-community-banner\" height=\"630\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/64c95bfd6f229ef082808732.webp\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"/assets/responsive/69e923c7b7e987c99ad56243.webp 800w, /assets/optimized/64c95bfd6f229ef082808732.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 961px) 236px, calc(100vw - 80px)\"></a><p class=\"topic-community-label\">Related community</p><h2><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/community/phobias\">Phobias</a></h2><p>A place to explore specific fears and the ways they can affect daily experiences.</p></section></div></div><aside aria-label=\"Article navigation and related information\" class=\"article-sidebar\" data-bounded-rail=\"\" tabindex=\"0\"><details class=\"article-contents\" data-expanded=\"false\" data-scrolled-past=\"false\" data-section-preview=\"3\" open=\"\"><summary><strong>Table of contents</strong><span aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><small data-current-section=\"\">Choose a section</small></summary><nav aria-label=\"Article contents\"><ol id=\"article-section-list\"><li><a aria-label=\"What is athazagoraphobia?\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#what-is-athazagoraphobia\" title=\"What is athazagoraphobia?\">What is athazagoraphobia?</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Symptoms of athazagoraphobia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#symptoms-of-athazagoraphobia\" title=\"Symptoms of athazagoraphobia\">Symptoms of athazagoraphobia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Causes of athazagoraphobia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#causes-of-athazagoraphobia\" title=\"Causes of athazagoraphobia\">Causes of athazagoraphobia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Diagnosing athazagoraphobia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#diagnosing-athazagoraphobia\" title=\"Diagnosing athazagoraphobia\">Diagnosing athazagoraphobia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Self-care for athazagoraphobia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#self-care-for-athazagoraphobia\" title=\"Self-care for athazagoraphobia\">Self-care for athazagoraphobia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Athazagoraphobia treatment\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#athazagoraphobia-treatment\" title=\"Athazagoraphobia treatment\">Athazagoraphobia treatment</a></li></ol><button aria-controls=\"article-section-list\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"article-sections-toggle\" data-sections-toggle=\"\" type=\"button\">View more</button></nav></details></aside></div></div></div>","text":"Home Library Phobias Athazagoraphobia Athazagoraphobia Written by Erin L. GeorgeMedically reviewed by Morgan Blair Published on October 25, 2023 · Updated on September 4, 2025 We all hope to be remembered for our positive qualities by friends, families, and other people we’ve connected with in life. If given the choice, few of us would choose to be forgotten by the people we’ve touched in our lives. For some people, the fear of being forgotten is so persistent, intense, and irrational that it can be deemed a phobia⁠[1]. Athazagoraphobia is an uncommon and specific phobia characterized by an irrational fear of being forgotten, ignored, or overlooked by others. It can also refer to the fear of forgetting another person or thing. Key takeaways Athazagoraphobia describes an intense fear of being forgotten or of forgetting people or things. The fear can cause marked anxiety and physical symptoms, with possible contributions from personal experiences and broader anxiety vulnerability. Professional assessment and psychological approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy can help address the fear and its effects. What is athazagoraphobia? Athazagoraphobia is an intense, constant fear of being forgotten or forgetting someone or something. Like other phobias, athazagoraphobia can feel extremely disruptive, with sufferers often experiencing intense anxiety and distress at the thought of fading into obscurity or being abandoned by those they care about. People with athazagoraphobia may experience both physical and mental symptoms when confronted with the idea of being forgotten or forgetting others. This distress can sometimes even lead to an anxiety attack. The fear of being forgotten can also be related to people’s anxieties about developing dementia, with recent studies showing ‘dementia worry’ to be a widespread phenomenon across Western societies⁠[2]. As the prevalence of dementia has increased across the nation, so has peoples’ exposure to the disease and individuals of all ages are increasingly concerned that they themselves may develop dementia. ‘Dementia worry’ can vary in intensity from mild to severe – the latter being encompassed by ‘athazagoraphobia’⁠[2]. It is a relatively unknown topic that requires further research so it can be better understood from a psychological and cultural perspective. Symptoms of athazagoraphobia Like other phobias, athazagoraphobia can present through a wide range of symptoms, both physical and mental. These symptoms vary depending on the severity of the phobia, with most people experiencing a base symptom of general anxiety⁠[3]. Mental symptoms may include: An all-consuming fear or anxiety when you are ignored or forgotten - or believe that you could be forgotten down the line. Feeling intensely anxious at the notion of being forgotten. Feeling hypervigilant towards signs of perceived neglect or indifference from others – regardless of other people’s intent or the reality of a situation. Afeeling of impending doom when contemplating a reality where you have lost your memory or have been forgotten by others. Constantly seeking reassurance, validation,or attention from friends and family to appease your fear of being forgotten. Depression Isolating yourself from social situations An inability to focus. Difficulty sleeping Physical symptoms can include: Panic attacks Body aches Sweating Nausea Dizziness Restlessness Elevated heart rate High blood pressure Localized pains in certain areas of the body Causes of athazagoraphobia The exact cause of athazagoraphobia, like many specific phobias, can be difficult to pinpoint and is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People generally have their phobias triggered by certain situations, experiences, or objects, and while they recognize their response is irrational and excessive, it does not make their experience any less distressing⁠[1]. Potential factors that contribute to the onset of athazagoraphobia include: Genetic predisposition: There is evidence to suggest that specific phobias, including athazagoraphobia, can have a genetic component⁠[4]. If there is a family history of anxiety disorders or phobias, an individual may be more susceptible to developing such fears. Parental influence: Observing and imitating the behavior of parents or caregivers who exhibit similar fears or anxieties can contribute to the development of athazagoraphobia. Traumatic event: A person may have suffered a traumatic experience such as being abandoned or the tragic loss of a loved one, which could contribute to them developing athazagoraphobia⁠[6]. Loved one with dementia: Being exposed to, or caring for, a person with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease may lead to the development of athazagoraphobia⁠[5]. Alternatively, someone with a dementia-related disease may suffer irrational, crippling anxiety about being forgotten by their loved ones as their condition deteriorates. Long-term stress: Stress is a common trigger of anxiety and depression. It can compromise your ability to cope with situations you feel uncomfortable in, causing you to spiral⁠[6]. This may make you feel anxious about being in those situations again leading you to isolate yourself. If this happens over a long period, it can develop into a phobia, such as athazagoraphobia. You may feel identifying the cause for your own phobia could prove beneficial, though there is a possibility you conclude there is no simple explanation. People tend to avoid the stimulus or situation that triggers their phobia, but this can deepen your fear causing you to withdraw more and more⁠[6]. While being in a situation involving your phobia can feel distressing, it can be beneficial to living with your phobia long term. There is a range of professional help options that can help you confront your phobia. Diagnosing athazagoraphobia Diagnosing athazagoraphobia, like any other phobia, would start with an evaluation from a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist with a specialty in phobias. After a thorough discussion of your symptoms, feelings, and experiences related to the phobia, the mental health professional will refer to the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V). While athazagoraphobia is not regarded as a mental health condition by the DSM-V currently, it would fall underneath the clinical category for specific phobias. Your mental health provider will refer to the manual’s criteria for phobias when considering with to diagnose you with one:⁠[1] The fear must be persistent and last for six or more months. The fear causes significant distress and impairs functioning. The fear concerns a specific stimulus – e.g., a situation or object. The fear is out of proportion to the danger posed by the stimulus. The fear occurs immediately when confronted by the stimulus. The fear cannot be better explained by a separate mental health condition. In some cases, the mental health professional may use standardized questionnaires or assessments to further evaluate the severity of your phobia and its impact on your life. Self-care for athazagoraphobia There are some steps you can take to try and manage your athazagoraphobia. They may help you cope with symptoms relating to your fear of being forgotten. You may find these steps helpful, but it's important to stress that these are not a cure for athazagoraphobia. Coping with the fear of being forgotten is a process and it may take time to find the right combination of self-care strategies that work for you. Confide in a friend or loved one Talk about your experience with athazagoraphobia with a friend, partner, or loved one⁠[6]. If they can understand your situation, they are more likely to empathize and know how you want to be supported. If nothing else, having someone listen to you and show they care about your plight can comforting. If you find it hard to talk about your phobia, try writing it down as this may help you organize your thoughts more clearly. Relaxation techniques There are a breadth of relaxation techniques that can help you manage your athazagoraphobia. Practicing breathing exercises, meditation, mindfulness, and daily stretching can help you manage triggers and generally alleviate stress⁠[6]. If you feel a sense of panic building, you can call upon the breath work you’ve practiced and handle the impending panic attack more effectively. Managing panic and anxiety brought on by your phobia can feel immensely challenging, but these relaxation techniques can help you feel more in control of your trigger situation or object⁠[6]. Subject matter expert Pat LaDouceur Ph.D. Anxiety, panic, and relationship stress Support groups Both in-person and online support groups can be beneficial to sufferers of phobias, especially uncommon ones like athazagoraphobia. It can feel validating and comforting to know you are not alone⁠[6]. You can share coping strategies and helpful resources with one another. Online support groups can be extra handy for people who aren’t able to leave home regularly, or who find it hard to speak to others face-to-face. You can locate both in-person and online groups in your area through a quick Google search. Most groups will set out criteria for membership, meeting times, and other useful information online. Athazagoraphobia treatment There are several ways to treat phobias, typically involving a combination of therapeutic approaches and some psychiatric medications. Exposure therapy This is the frontline treatment for phobias, including athazagoraphobia⁠[1]. Exposure therapy involves gradually exposing people to whatever triggers their phobia. This is initially done in the controlled setting of a therapist’s office, but as a patient progresses in their treatment plan, they are given exposure tasks to complete at home. Patients are taught breathing techniques to use before and during exposure to manage distress⁠[1]. Exposure therapy helps over 90% of people who practice it accurately and is typically the only treatment needed for many phobias. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) CBT is another effective treatments for specific phobias, including athazagoraphobia. It helps individuals identify and challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs related to their fear⁠[6]. The aim is for a patient to learn why it is they fear forgetting or being forgotten. Understanding this can help a person with athazagoraphobia modify their behavior towards their triggers. Medications Medications aren’t typically prescribed to people seeking to overcome their phobias. However, benzodiazepines, used to treat anxiety, are an exception⁠[1]. This will not help a person eliminate their athazagoraphobia, but it may temporarily manage anxiety related to the condition. Medication would not typically be prescribed on its own – it would accompany a therapeutic approach. Find support that fits you Explore people and care options near you. Find care References Barnhill, J. W. (2023b, August 30). Specific phobias. MSD Manual Consumer Version. MSD Manuals. Accessed October 10 2026. Kessler, E., Bowen, C. E., Baer, M. T., Frölich, L., & Wahl, H. (2012). Dementia worry: a psychological examination of an unexplored phenomenon. European Journal of Ageing, 9(4), 275–284. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026. Specific phobia. (n.d.). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026. Villafuerte, S., & Burmeister, M. (2003). Untangling genetic networks of panic, phobia, fear and anxiety. Genome biology, 4(8), 224. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026. Norman, A. L., Woodard, J. L., Calamari, J. E., Gross, E., Pontarelli, N. K., Socha, J., DeJong, B., & Armstrong, K. (2018). The fear of Alzheimer’s disease: mediating effects of anxiety on subjective memory complaints. Aging & Mental Health, 24(2), 308–314. Taylor & Francis. What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026. Medical Content The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy. About MentalHealth.com MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life. Author Erin L. George MFT Erin L. George, MFT, holds a master's degree in family therapy with a focus on group dynamics in high-risk families. As a court-appointed special advocate for children, she is dedicated to helping families rebuild relationships and improve their mental and behavioral health. Published October 25, 2023 Updated September 4, 2025 Medical Reviewer Morgan Blair, M.A. MA, LPCC Morgan Blair is a licensed therapist, writer and medical reviewer, holding a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University. Reviewed October 25, 2023 Related community Phobias A place to explore specific fears and the ways they can affect daily experiences. Table of contentsChoose a section What is athazagoraphobia? Symptoms of athazagoraphobia Causes of athazagoraphobia Diagnosing athazagoraphobia Self-care for athazagoraphobia Athazagoraphobia treatment View more","wordCount":2042},"schema":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization","name":"MentalHealth.com","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","publishingPrinciples":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing/editorial-policy"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#website","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","name":"MentalHealth.com","inLanguage":"en-US","publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"}},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Library","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Phobias","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/phobias"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Athazagoraphobia","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia"}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#primaryimage","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/b43b014c9377a4f2a2f71786.webp","contentUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/b43b014c9377a4f2a2f71786.webp","width":1200,"height":799,"encodingFormat":"image/webp","caption":"A woman sits thoughtfully beside a window with her hand near her face."},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/erin-george#person","name":"Erin L. George","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/erin-george","jobTitle":"MFT","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/3e6614c23a1205b91bc9e56a.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinlgeorge/"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs#department"},{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing#department"}]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair#person","name":"Morgan Blair","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair","jobTitle":"MA, LPCC","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/9f1be5c5cc2b412cfab5f6cc.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-blair-5627aa88/"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs#department"}]},{"@type":"Article","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#article","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia","headline":"Athazagoraphobia","description":"Athazagoraphobia is the specific phobia of being forgotten or forgetting someone or something. Symptoms can be treated with therapy and self-help techniques.","wordCount":1624,"mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#webpage"},"publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"},"articleSection":"Phobias","citation":[{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Barnhill, J. W. (2023b, August 30). Specific phobias. MSD Manual Consumer Version. MSD Manuals. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/anxiety-and-stress-related-disorders/specific-phobias?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Kessler, E., Bowen, C. E., Baer, M. T., Frölich, L., & Wahl, H. (2012). Dementia worry: a psychological examination of an unexplored phenomenon. European Journal of Ageing, 9(4), 275–284. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10433-012-0242-8?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Specific phobia. (n.d.). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/specific-phobia?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Villafuerte, S., & Burmeister, M. (2003). Untangling genetic networks of panic, phobia, fear and anxiety. Genome biology, 4(8), 224. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/gb-2003-4-8-224?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Norman, A. L., Woodard, J. L., Calamari, J. E., Gross, E., Pontarelli, N. K., Socha, J., DeJong, B., & Armstrong, K. (2018). The fear of Alzheimer’s disease: mediating effects of anxiety on subjective memory complaints. Aging & Mental Health, 24(2), 308–314. Taylor & Francis.","url":"https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13607863.2018.1534081?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/phobias/understanding-phobias/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"}],"inLanguage":"en-US","author":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/erin-george#person"}],"image":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#primaryimage"},"about":{"@type":"Thing","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/phobias#topic","name":"Phobias"},"datePublished":"2023-10-25T10:01:01Z","dateModified":"2025-09-04T13:08:03Z"},{"@type":"MedicalWebPage","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#webpage","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia","name":"Athazagoraphobia","description":"Athazagoraphobia is the specific phobia of being forgotten or forgetting someone or something. Symptoms can be treated with therapy and self-help techniques.","inLanguage":"en-US","isPartOf":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/phobias#webpage"},"breadcrumb":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#breadcrumb"},"mainEntity":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#article"},"relatedLink":["https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/agoraphobia","https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/genetic-basis-of-agoraphobia","https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/overcoming-agoraphobia","https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/duration-of-agoraphobia","https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/agoraphobia-as-an-anxiety-disorder","https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/pat-ladouceur"],"publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"},"medicalAudience":{"@type":"MedicalAudience","audienceType":"General public"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#primaryimage"},"reviewedBy":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair#person"},"about":{"@type":"Thing","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/phobias#topic","name":"Phobias"},"citation":[{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Barnhill, J. W. (2023b, August 30). Specific phobias. MSD Manual Consumer Version. MSD Manuals. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/anxiety-and-stress-related-disorders/specific-phobias?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Kessler, E., Bowen, C. E., Baer, M. T., Frölich, L., & Wahl, H. (2012). Dementia worry: a psychological examination of an unexplored phenomenon. European Journal of Ageing, 9(4), 275–284. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10433-012-0242-8?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Specific phobia. (n.d.). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/specific-phobia?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Villafuerte, S., & Burmeister, M. (2003). Untangling genetic networks of panic, phobia, fear and anxiety. Genome biology, 4(8), 224. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/gb-2003-4-8-224?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Norman, A. L., Woodard, J. L., Calamari, J. E., Gross, E., Pontarelli, N. K., Socha, J., DeJong, B., & Armstrong, K. (2018). The fear of Alzheimer’s disease: mediating effects of anxiety on subjective memory complaints. Aging & Mental Health, 24(2), 308–314. Taylor & Francis.","url":"https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13607863.2018.1534081?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.","url":"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/phobias/understanding-phobias/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"}],"datePublished":"2023-10-25T10:01:01Z","dateModified":"2025-09-04T13:08:03Z","lastReviewed":"2023-10-25"}]},"representations":{"html":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia","json":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/data/library/athazagoraphobia.json","jsonLd":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/data/library/athazagoraphobia.ld.json"},"$schema":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/data/page.schema.json","images":[{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/3e6614c23a1205b91bc9e56a.jpg","alt":"","width":22,"height":22},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/9f1be5c5cc2b412cfab5f6cc.jpg","alt":"","width":22,"height":22},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/b43b014c9377a4f2a2f71786.webp","alt":"A woman sits thoughtfully beside a window with her hand near her face.","width":1200,"height":799},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/11551d5d254dde5fa8b1fa65.jpg","alt":"","width":64,"height":64},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/64c95bfd6f229ef082808732.webp","alt":"","width":1200,"height":630}],"sections":[{"id":"key-takeaways","title":"Key takeaways","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#key-takeaways"},{"id":"what-is-athazagoraphobia","title":"What is athazagoraphobia?","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#what-is-athazagoraphobia"},{"id":"symptoms-of-athazagoraphobia","title":"Symptoms of athazagoraphobia","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#symptoms-of-athazagoraphobia"},{"id":"causes-of-athazagoraphobia","title":"Causes of athazagoraphobia","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#causes-of-athazagoraphobia"},{"id":"diagnosing-athazagoraphobia","title":"Diagnosing athazagoraphobia","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#diagnosing-athazagoraphobia"},{"id":"self-care-for-athazagoraphobia","title":"Self-care for athazagoraphobia","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#self-care-for-athazagoraphobia"},{"id":"confide-in-a-friend-or-loved-one-talk-about-your-experience-with-athazagoraphobia-with-a-friend-partner-or-loved-one","title":"Confide in a friend or loved one","level":3,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#confide-in-a-friend-or-loved-one-talk-about-your-experience-with-athazagoraphobia-with-a-friend-partner-or-loved-one"},{"id":"relaxation-techniques-there-are-a-breadth-of-relaxation-techniques-that-can-help-you-manage-your-athazagoraphobia-practicing-breathing-exercises-meditation-mindfulness-and-daily-stretching-can-help-you-manage-triggers-and-generally-alleviate-stress","title":"Relaxation techniques","level":3,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#relaxation-techniques-there-are-a-breadth-of-relaxation-techniques-that-can-help-you-manage-your-athazagoraphobia-practicing-breathing-exercises-meditation-mindfulness-and-daily-stretching-can-help-you-manage-triggers-and-generally-alleviate-stress"},{"id":"support-groups-both-in-person-and-online-support-groups-can-be-beneficial-to-sufferers-of-phobias-especially-uncommon-ones-like-athazagoraphobia-it-can-feel-validating-and-comforting-to-know-you-are-not-alone","title":"Support groups","level":3,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#support-groups-both-in-person-and-online-support-groups-can-be-beneficial-to-sufferers-of-phobias-especially-uncommon-ones-like-athazagoraphobia-it-can-feel-validating-and-comforting-to-know-you-are-not-alone"},{"id":"athazagoraphobia-treatment","title":"Athazagoraphobia treatment","level":2,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#athazagoraphobia-treatment"},{"id":"exposure-therapy-this-is-the-frontline-treatment-for-phobias-including-athazagoraphobia","title":"Exposure therapy","level":3,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#exposure-therapy-this-is-the-frontline-treatment-for-phobias-including-athazagoraphobia"},{"id":"cognitive-behavioral-therapy-cbt","title":"Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)","level":3,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#cognitive-behavioral-therapy-cbt"},{"id":"medications-medications-aren-t-typically-prescribed-to-people-seeking-to-overcome-their-phobias-however","title":"Medications","level":3,"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#medications-medications-aren-t-typically-prescribed-to-people-seeking-to-overcome-their-phobias-however"}],"references":[{"number":1,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias","text":"Barnhill, J. W. (2023b, August 30). Specific phobias. MSD Manual Consumer Version. MSD Manuals. Accessed October 10 2026.","links":[{"url":"https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/anxiety-and-stress-related-disorders/specific-phobias?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"MSD Manuals"}],"url":"https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/anxiety-and-stress-related-disorders/specific-phobias?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":2,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#dementia-worry-psychological-examination-unexplored-phenomenon","text":"Kessler, E., Bowen, C. E., Baer, M. T., Frölich, L., & Wahl, H. (2012). Dementia worry: a psychological examination of an unexplored phenomenon. European Journal of Ageing, 9(4), 275–284. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.","links":[{"url":"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10433-012-0242-8?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Springer"}],"url":"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10433-012-0242-8?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":3,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#national-institute-mental-health-nimh","text":"Specific phobia. (n.d.). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.","links":[{"url":"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/specific-phobia?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"National Institute of Mental Health"}],"url":"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/specific-phobia?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":4,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#untangling-genetic-networks-panic-phobia-fear-anxiety","text":"Villafuerte, S., & Burmeister, M. (2003). Untangling genetic networks of panic, phobia, fear and anxiety. Genome biology, 4(8), 224. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.","links":[{"url":"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/gb-2003-4-8-224?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Springer"}],"url":"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/gb-2003-4-8-224?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":5,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#fear-alzheimers-disease-mediating-effects-anxiety-subjective-memory-complaints","text":"Norman, A. L., Woodard, J. L., Calamari, J. E., Gross, E., Pontarelli, N. K., Socha, J., DeJong, B., & Armstrong, K. (2018). The fear of Alzheimer’s disease: mediating effects of anxiety on subjective memory complaints. Aging & Mental Health, 24(2), 308–314. Taylor & Francis.","links":[{"url":"https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13607863.2018.1534081?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Taylor & Francis"}],"url":"https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13607863.2018.1534081?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":6,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind","text":"What causes phobias? (n.d.). Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.","links":[{"url":"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/phobias/understanding-phobias/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Mind"}],"url":"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/phobias/understanding-phobias/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"}],"relatedReading":[],"links":[{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","label":"Home"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library","label":"Library"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/phobias","label":"Phobias"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/erin-george","label":"Erin L. George"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair","label":"Morgan Blair"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias","label":"[1]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/phobias","label":"phobias"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#dementia-worry-psychological-examination-unexplored-phenomenon","label":"[2]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#dementia-worry-psychological-examination-unexplored-phenomenon","label":"[2]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#national-institute-mental-health-nimh","label":"[3]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/specific-phobias","label":"specific phobias"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias","label":"[1]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#untangling-genetic-networks-panic-phobia-fear-anxiety","label":"[4]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind","label":"[6]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#fear-alzheimers-disease-mediating-effects-anxiety-subjective-memory-complaints","label":"[5]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind","label":"[6]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind","label":"[6]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/dsm-5","label":"Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias","label":"[1]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/self-help","label":"self-care strategies"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind","label":"[6]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind","label":"[6]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/panic-attacks-in-anxiety-disorders","label":"panic attack"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind","label":"[6]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/pat-ladouceur","label":""},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/pat-ladouceur","label":"Pat LaDouceur Ph.D."},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind","label":"[6]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/support-groups","label":"support groups"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias","label":"[1]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias","label":"[1]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/cognitive-behavioral-therapy","label":"CBT"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#mind","label":"[6]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/benzodiazepines","label":"benzodiazepines"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#specific-phobias","label":"[1]"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/therapists?specialty=Phobias","label":"Find care"},{"url":"https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/anxiety-and-stress-related-disorders/specific-phobias?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"MSD Manuals"},{"url":"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10433-012-0242-8?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Springer"},{"url":"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/specific-phobia?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"National Institute of Mental Health"},{"url":"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/gb-2003-4-8-224?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Springer"},{"url":"https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13607863.2018.1534081?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Taylor & Francis"},{"url":"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/phobias/understanding-phobias/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-athazagoraphobia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"Mind"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs","label":"The Clinical Affairs Team"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing/editorial-policy","label":"Editorial Policy"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/erin-george","label":""},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/erin-george","label":"Erin L. George"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair","label":""},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair","label":"Morgan Blair, M.A."},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/community/phobias","label":""},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/community/phobias","label":"Phobias"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#what-is-athazagoraphobia","label":"What is athazagoraphobia?"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#symptoms-of-athazagoraphobia","label":"Symptoms of athazagoraphobia"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#causes-of-athazagoraphobia","label":"Causes of athazagoraphobia"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#diagnosing-athazagoraphobia","label":"Diagnosing athazagoraphobia"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#self-care-for-athazagoraphobia","label":"Self-care for athazagoraphobia"},{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#athazagoraphobia-treatment","label":"Athazagoraphobia treatment"}],"seo":{"title":"Athazagoraphobia: Fear of Being Forgotten","description":"Athazagoraphobia is the specific phobia of being forgotten or forgetting someone or something. Symptoms can be treated with therapy and self-help techniques.","canonical":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia","robots":"index,follow","socialImage":{"url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/ec9b0cb47c0207d45e88634d.png","width":1200,"height":630,"alt":"MentalHealth.com — Library","type":"image/png","sitemapGroup":"library"}},"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/"},{"name":"Library","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library"},{"name":"Phobias","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/phobias"},{"name":"Athazagoraphobia","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia"}],"subjectMatterExpert":{"name":"Pat LaDouceur, Ph.D.","url":"/people/pat-ladouceur","profileId":"6412","topic":"anxiety","focus":"Anxiety, panic, and relationship stress","selectionBasis":"Documented expertise in the existing published profile","reviewAttribution":false},"keyTakeaways":["Athazagoraphobia describes an intense fear of being forgotten or of forgetting people or things.","The fear can cause marked anxiety and physical symptoms, with possible contributions from personal experiences and broader anxiety vulnerability.","Professional assessment and psychological approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy can help address the fear and its effects."],"introduction":{"html":"We all hope to be remembered for our positive qualities by friends, families, and other people we’ve connected with in life. If given the choice, few of us would choose to be forgotten by the people we’ve touched in our lives.\n\nFor some people, the fear of being forgotten is so persistent, intense, and irrational that it can be deemed a phobia. <sup><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/athazagoraphobia#resource-1\">[1]</a></sup>\n\nAthazagoraphobia is an uncommon and specific phobia characterized by an irrational fear of being forgotten, ignored, or overlooked by others. It can also refer to the fear of forgetting another person or thing.","text":"We all hope to be remembered for our positive qualities by friends, families, and other people we’ve connected with in life. If given the choice, few of us would choose to be forgotten by the people we’ve touched in our lives. For some people, the fear of being forgotten is so persistent, intense, and irrational that it can be deemed a phobia. [1] Athazagoraphobia is an uncommon and specific phobia characterized by an irrational fear of being forgotten, ignored, or overlooked by others. It can also refer to the fear of forgetting another person or thing.","sourceField":"hero"},"navigation":[{"label":"What is athazagoraphobia?","href":"#what-is-athazagoraphobia","heading":"What is athazagoraphobia?"},{"label":"Symptoms of athazagoraphobia","href":"#symptoms-of-athazagoraphobia","heading":"Symptoms of athazagoraphobia"},{"label":"Causes of athazagoraphobia","href":"#causes-of-athazagoraphobia","heading":"Causes of athazagoraphobia"},{"label":"Diagnosing athazagoraphobia","href":"#diagnosing-athazagoraphobia","heading":"Diagnosing athazagoraphobia"},{"label":"Self-care for athazagoraphobia","href":"#self-care-for-athazagoraphobia","heading":"Self-care for athazagoraphobia"},{"label":"Athazagoraphobia treatment","href":"#athazagoraphobia-treatment","heading":"Athazagoraphobia treatment"}],"relatedCommunity":{"community":"/community/phobias","basis":"topic match"},"referencePresentation":"Numbered author–date references with italic work titles, publication details, linked source names, and documented access dates. Missing publication dates use n.d.","collections":[]}
