{"formatVersion":"1.1","id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia","path":"/library/megalophobia","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia","title":"Megalophobia","family":"Library detail","description":"Megalophobia is an intense fear of extremely large objects. This anxiety disorder can be managed with the correct treatment.","language":"en-US","access":{"audience":"public","indexable":true},"provenance":{"sourceUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia","wordpressId":"408","contentCompleteness":"complete","dateScope":"original-source"},"authors":[{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/naomi-carr#person","name":"Naomi Carr","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/naomi-carr"}],"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":"2023-03-29T12:22:12Z","dateModified":"2025-07-31T21:35:48Z","lastReviewed":"2023-03-29"},"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\">Megalophobia</span></li></ol></nav><div class=\"article-page article-standard\" data-library-standard=\"\"><div class=\"article-main-grid\"><header class=\"article-heading\"><h1>Megalophobia</h1><p class=\"article-inline-credits\"><span>Written by <a class=\"article-credit-person\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/naomi-carr\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"22\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/47686b37ff1465ff6711c0b5.jpg\" width=\"22\" decoding=\"async\">Naomi Carr</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=\"2023-03-29T12:22:12Z\">March 29, 2023</time></span><span aria-hidden=\"true\"> · </span><span>Updated on <time datetime=\"2025-07-31T21:35:48Z\">July 31, 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>Megalophobia is an irrational and excessive fear of large objects, that can occur as a result of a negative experience or due to an unknown cause. Symptoms of megalophobia include anxiety or <a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/panic-attacks-in-anxiety-disorders\" class=\"article-inline-link\" data-context-link=\"353\">panic attacks</a> in the presence of large objects but can be treated by therapy and medication.</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>Megalophobia is an intense fear of large objects that may trigger anxiety, panic, and avoidance.</li><li>Its causes can involve genetic vulnerability, learned experiences, and individual responses to threat.</li><li>Assessment and psychological treatment can help reduce impairment, while medication may be considered for associated anxiety symptoms.</li></ul></section><span id=\"what-is-megalophobia-megalophobia-is-an-intense-fear-of-large-objects-that-can-cause-extreme-feelings-of-anxiety-and-panic-attacks-when-anticipating-or-being-in-the-presence-of-large-objects\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"what-is-megalophobia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"what-is-megalophobia\">What is megalophobia?</h2><p>\nMegalophobia is an intense fear of large objects, that can cause extreme feelings of anxiety and panic attacks when anticipating or being in the presence of large objects⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#megalophobia-fear-large-things\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 1: May, J. (2015). Megalophobia: Fear of Large Things. Callaloo,38(1), 75. muse.jhu.edu.\" data-reference-number=\"1\">[1]</a></sup>. This can lead to the avoidance of certain situations and environments and may cause a severe decline in quality of life.\nMegalophobia could develop as a fear of all large objects or of specific large objects, which may include:\n</p><ul>\n<li>Large vehicles, such as airplanes, boats, lorries, or helicopters</li>\n<li>Large statues, monuments, or art installations</li>\n<li>Large animals, such as elephants, whales, or giraffes</li>\n<li>Large buildings, such as skyscrapers, hospitals, or malls</li>\n<li>Large expanses, such as oceans, the sky, or canyons</li>\n</ul><p>\nAlthough not specifically mentioned in the <em>Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5<sup>th</sup> Edition (DSM-5)</em>, megalophobia is considered a <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/specific-phobias\">specific phobia</a>, which is in part defined by an irrational and disproportionate level of fear or anxiety when faced with a certain stimulus⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#anxiety-disorders-specific-phobia\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 2: American Psychiatric Association. (2013, text revision 2022). Anxiety Disorders – Specific Phobia. In The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed. text rev.). APA. PsychiatryOnline.\" data-reference-number=\"2\">[2]</a></sup>.\n</p><p>Current research on megalophobia is limited, partially due to the fact that many people do not report or seek help for phobias⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#specific-phobia\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Samra, C.K., &amp; Abdijadid, S. (2022). Specific Phobia. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed January 12 2023.\" data-reference-number=\"3\">[3]</a></sup>. They may also be challenging to diagnose as symptoms of other conditions may appear similar. As such, further research is required to clarify the causes of and circumstances surrounding the development of specific phobias such as megalophobia.\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\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/f3b9d905f1cd6379a2692607.jpg\" width=\"64\" decoding=\"async\"><h2><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/brian-thompson\">Brian Thompson <span class=\"expert-credentials\">Ph.D.</span></a></h2></div><p class=\"article-expert-focus\">Evidence-based care for anxiety</p><a class=\"profile-experience-link experience-button\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/brian-thompson\">View experience</a></section><span id=\"symptoms-of-megalophobia-symptoms-of-megalophobia-may-vary-from-person-to-person-but-can-include\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"symptoms-of-megalophobia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"symptoms-of-megalophobia\">Symptoms of megalophobia</h2><p>A phobia focused on large objects may involve fear, avoidance, and interference with everyday life. Possible difficulties include:⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#anxiety-disorders-specific-phobia\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 2: American Psychiatric Association. (2013, text revision 2022). Anxiety Disorders – Specific Phobia. In The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed. text rev.). APA. PsychiatryOnline.\" data-reference-number=\"2\">[2]</a><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#specific-phobia\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Samra, C.K., &amp; Abdijadid, S. (2022). Specific Phobia. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed January 12 2023.\" data-reference-number=\"3\">[3]</a><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 4: National Institute of Mental Health. (2025). Phobias and Phobia-Related Disorders. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"4\">[4]</a></sup></p><ul><li>Intense fear when encountering or anticipating large objects.</li><li>Physical anxiety symptoms such as sweating, trembling, or a racing heart.</li><li>Avoidance of situations involving feared objects.</li><li>Distress or interference with work, relationships, and everyday activities.</li></ul><span id=\"causes-of-megalophobia-the-exact-cause-of-megalophobia-is-not-known-and-may-differ-from-person-to-person-however-there-are-several-potential-causes-and-risk-factors-that-can-contribute-to-the-development-of-a-specific-phobia\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"causes-of-megalophobia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"causes-of-megalophobia\">Causes of megalophobia</h2><p>\nThe exact cause of megalophobia is not known and may differ from person to person. However, there are several potential causes and risk factors that can contribute to the development of a specific phobia.\n</p><h3 id=\"genetics-research-indicates-that-there-is-a-strong-heritability-of-specific-phobias-as-those-with-a-specific-phobia-commonly-have-a-relative-with-an-anxiety-disorder-phobia-or-both-indicating-a-likelihood-of-a-genetic-predisposition\">Genetics</h3><p>\nResearch indicates that there is a strong heritability of specific phobias, as those with a specific phobia commonly have a relative with an anxiety disorder, phobia, or both, indicating a likelihood of a genetic predisposition⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#untangling-genetic-networks-panic-phobia-fear-anxiety\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 5: 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=\"5\">[5]</a></sup>.\n</p><h3 id=\"brain-functioning-there-have-been-studies-looking-into-the-neurobiology-of-fear-and-specific-phobias-that-have-found-a-potential-difference-in-people-with-and-without-a-phobia-in-the-activation-and-function-of-the-fear-response-in-the-amygdala-therefore-this-suggests-that-some-people-could-have-an-increased-sensitivity-to-fear-that-contributes-to-the-development-of-a-phobia\">Brain functioning</h3><p>\nThere have been studies looking into the neurobiology of fear and specific phobias that have found a potential difference in people with and without a phobia in the activation and function of the fear response in the amygdala. Therefore, this suggests that some people could have an increased sensitivity to fear that contributes to the development of a phobia⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#neurobiology-fear-specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: Garcia, R. (2017). Neurobiology of Fear and Specific Phobias. Learning &amp; Memory (Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.), 24(9), 462–471. learnmem.cshlp.org. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>.\n</p><h3 id=\"past-traumatic-experience-phobias-can-develop-as-a-response-to-a-traumatic-experience\">Past traumatic experience</h3><p>Phobias can be influenced by stressful or traumatic experiences, as well as genes and other factors. A frightening experience involving a large object may be relevant to someone’s fear, but it is not a necessary or sufficient explanation for every case⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 4: National Institute of Mental Health. (2025). Phobias and Phobia-Related Disorders. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"4\">[4]</a></sup>.</p><span id=\"diagnosing-megalophobia-specific-phobias-are-often-not-diagnosed-as-many-people-do-not-seek-help-and-simply-avoid-the-stimulus-that-causes-them-fear-or-believe-that-their-anxiety-is-caused-by-a-different-diagnosis\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"diagnosing-megalophobia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"diagnosing-megalophobia\">Diagnosing megalophobia</h2><p>\nSpecific phobias are often not diagnosed, as many people do not seek help and simply avoid the stimulus that causes them fear or believe that their anxiety is caused by a different diagnosis⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#specific-phobia\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Samra, C.K., &amp; Abdijadid, S. (2022). Specific Phobia. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed January 12 2023.\" data-reference-number=\"3\">[3]</a></sup>.\n</p><p>However, if you think you have megalophobia, it is important to seek a diagnosis so that you can receive appropriate treatment and prevent your symptoms from becoming worse or having further impact on your life.</p><p>\nTo diagnose megalophobia, you will be asked questions about your symptoms, relating to diagnostic criteria for a specific phobia from the <em>DSM-5</em>, which includes⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#anxiety-disorders-specific-phobia\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 2: American Psychiatric Association. (2013, text revision 2022). Anxiety Disorders – Specific Phobia. In The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed. text rev.). APA. PsychiatryOnline.\" data-reference-number=\"2\">[2]</a></sup>:\n</p><ul>\n<li>Anticipating or being faced with the stimulus (large objects) causes intense feelings of anxiety, which may lead to prolonged or repeated avoidance.</li>\n<li>The associated symptoms cause distress and impair social and/or professional functioning.</li>\n<li>The level of fear and anxiety is disproportionate to the potential danger or outcome.</li>\n<li>These symptoms have persisted for at least 6 months.</li>\n<li>These symptoms cannot be explained by another condition, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or social anxiety.</li>\n</ul><span id=\"treatment-for-megalophobia-many-people-with-a-specific-phobia-don-t-seek-treatment-as-they-may-just-continue-to-live-with-the-phobia-avoid-the-triggering-stimulus-or-feel-anxious-about-asking-for-help-however-without-treatment-phobias-can-persist-and-may-worsen-so-it-is-important-to-seek-professional-advice\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"treatment-for-megalophobia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"treatment-for-megalophobia\">Treatment for megalophobia</h2><p>If fear of large objects restricts daily life, seek a professional assessment. CBT and exposure therapy are commonly used for phobias, with treatment adapted to the individual’s fears and needs⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#specific-phobia\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Samra, C.K., &amp; Abdijadid, S. (2022). Specific Phobia. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed January 12 2023.\" data-reference-number=\"3\">[3]</a><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 4: National Institute of Mental Health. (2025). Phobias and Phobia-Related Disorders. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"4\">[4]</a></sup>.</p><h3 id=\"therapy\">Therapy</h3><ul>\n<li><strong>Behavioral therapy: </strong>Therapy such as <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/cognitive-behavioral-therapy\">cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)</a> helps to alter emotional responses and behavior that have been learned as a fear response, by providing skills to tolerate negative emotions, reducing distress caused by fear, and teaching coping techniques⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#specific-phobia\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Samra, C.K., &amp; Abdijadid, S. (2022). Specific Phobia. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed January 12 2023.\" data-reference-number=\"3\">[3]</a><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#treatment-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 7: National Health Service. (2022). Treatment - Phobias. NHS. NHS. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"7\">[7]</a></sup>.</li>\n<li><strong>Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): </strong> This treatment helps people with PTSD process traumatic memories while attending to a back-and-forth movement or sound. If a phobia occurs alongside PTSD, a clinician can assess whether trauma-focused treatment is appropriate. Evidence for treating PTSD should not be treated as proof that EMDR is the preferred treatment for every specific phobia⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#treatment-specific-phobias-eye-movement-desensitization-reprocessing-emdr-protocol\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 8: National Center for PTSD. (n.d.). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. ptsd.va.gov. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"8\">[8]</a></sup>.</li>\n<li><strong>Exposure and response prevention: </strong>Similarly, ERP also works by exposing the individual to a feared situation, while providing techniques to prevent negative responses and teach new and helpful responses⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#mechanisms-exposure-response-prevention-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-effects-habituatio\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 9: Elsner, B., Jacobi, T., Kischkel, E., Schulze, D., &amp; Reuter, B. (2022). Mechanisms of Exposure and Response Prevention in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Effects of Habituation and Expectancy Violation on Short-Term Outcome in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. BMC Psychiatry, 22(1), 66. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"9\">[9]</a></sup>.</li>\n<li><strong>Virtual reality therapy: </strong>As a new treatment, virtual reality therapy utilizes virtual reality technology to provide safe exposure to a feared stimulus and gradually desensitize the individual, with the aim to eventually move on to real exposure to the trigger once tolerance is increased⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#specific-phobia\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Samra, C.K., &amp; Abdijadid, S. (2022). Specific Phobia. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed January 12 2023.\" data-reference-number=\"3\">[3]</a><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#implementations-virtual-reality-anxiety-related-disorders-systematic-review\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 10: Oing, T., &amp; Prescott, J. (2018). Implementations of Virtual Reality for Anxiety-Related Disorders: Systematic Review. JMIR Serious Games, 6(4), e10965. games.jmir.org:443. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"10\">[10]</a></sup>.</li>\n<li><strong>Other therapies</strong><strong>: </strong>Interpersonal therapy, family therapy, and other forms of therapeutic intervention can also be helpful for the individual to be provided with support and validation, also aiming to alleviate negative emotions associated with their phobia⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#treatment-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 7: National Health Service. (2022). Treatment - Phobias. NHS. NHS. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"7\">[7]</a></sup>.</li>\n</ul><h3 id=\"medications-although-there-are-no-approved-medications-for-the-treatment-of-a-specific-phobia-a-medication-may-be-prescribed-to-help-manage-the-symptoms-including\">Medications</h3><p>\nAlthough there are no approved medications for the treatment of a specific phobia, a medication may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms, including⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#specific-phobia\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Samra, C.K., &amp; Abdijadid, S. (2022). Specific Phobia. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed January 12 2023.\" data-reference-number=\"3\">[3]</a><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#neurobiology-fear-specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: Garcia, R. (2017). Neurobiology of Fear and Specific Phobias. Learning &amp; Memory (Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.), 24(9), 462–471. learnmem.cshlp.org. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#treatment-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 7: National Health Service. (2022). Treatment - Phobias. NHS. NHS. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"7\">[7]</a></sup>:\n</p><ul>\n<li><strong>Antidepressants: </strong>Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/citalopram-uses-dosage-side-effects\">citalopram</a> and <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/sertraline-uses-dosage-side-effects\">sertraline</a>, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/venlafaxine-uses-dosage-side-effects\">venlafaxine</a>, and tricyclic antidepressants (TCA) such as <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/clomipramine-use-doses-side-effects\">clomipramine</a>, may be used in the treatment of specific phobia to reduce feelings of anxiety.</li>\n<li><strong>Antihistamines: </strong><a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/hydroxyzine-uses-dosage-side-effects\">Hydroxyzine</a>, an antihistamine medication, has been found to be useful in the treatment of anxiety disorders and may help to reduce symptoms of a specific phobia.</li>\n<li><strong>Anxiolytics</strong><strong>: </strong>Benzodiazepines such as <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/diazepam-uses-dosage-side-effects\">diazepam</a> can be prescribed for short-term treatment of anxiety disorders and phobias but are not used as a long-term treatment due to their risks.</li>\n<li><strong>Beta-blockers: </strong>Beta-blockers such as <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/propranolol-inderal-uses-dosage-side-effects\">propranolol</a> are commonly used to treat the physical symptoms of acute anxiety, such as a racing heart, and may also be helpful in managing the symptoms of a specific phobia.</li>\n</ul><p>\nIt is important to ensure you take your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor, as adverse effects can occur if you take too much, skip doses, or suddenly stop your medication, and this can worsen your mental and physical health.\n</p><span id=\"self-care-for-megalophobia-if-you-have-megalophobia-you-may-be-able-to-reduce-the-impact-of-your-symptoms-with-some-self-help-techniques-including\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"self-care-for-megalophobia\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><aside class=\"article-support\" data-article-therapist=\"megalophobia\" 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><h2 id=\"self-care-for-megalophobia\">Self-care for megalophobia</h2><p>\nIf you have megalophobia, you may be able to reduce the impact of your symptoms with some self-help techniques, including⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#treatment-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 7: National Health Service. (2022). Treatment - Phobias. NHS. NHS. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"7\">[7]</a><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#self-care-tips-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 11: Mind. (2021). Self-Care Tips for Phobias. Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"11\">[11]</a></sup>:\n</p><ul>\n<li><strong>Talking to others: </strong>Communicating about your fears can help to lessen the impact of your anxieties and can potentially reduce irrational ideas and fears.</li>\n<li><strong>Relaxation exercises: </strong>Calming activities, such as breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga, are effective at reducing anxiety and managing acute symptoms of a panic attack or severe emotional responses that may occur.</li>\n<li><strong>Support groups: </strong>Attending a support group in person or online can provide an understanding and acceptance of your phobia and an opportunity to speak with people who have had similar experiences, which could reduce negative and distressing emotions.</li>\n<li><strong>General health: </strong>By looking after your general wellbeing, with healthy eating, getting enough sleep, and engaging in regular exercise, you might be able to reduce the symptoms of anxiety caused by megalophobia.</li>\n</ul><h2 id=\"frequently-asked-questions-about-megalophobia\">Frequently asked questions about megalophobia</h2><h3 id=\"how-common-is-megalophobia-the-prevalence-of-megalophobia-is-not-known-due-to-a-lack-of-research-and-reporting-of-the-condition-although-research-indicates-that-between-1-10-of-the-population-experiences-a-specific-phobia-with-females-being-several-times-more-likely-to-have-a-specific-phobia-than-males\">How common is megalophobia?</h3><p>\nThe prevalence of megalophobia is not known, due to a lack of research and reporting of the condition. Although, research indicates that between 1-10% of the population experiences a specific phobia, with females being several times more likely to have a specific phobia than males⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#cross-national-epidemiology-specific-phobia-world-mental-health-surveys\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 12: Wardenaar, K.J., Lim, C.C.W., Al-Hamzawi, A.O., Alonso, J., Andrade, L.H., Benjet, C., Bunting, B., de Girolamo, G., Demyttenaere, K., Florescu, S.E., Gureje, O., Hisateru, T., Hu, C., Huang, Y., Karam, E., Kiejna, A., Lepine, J.P., Navarro-Mateu, F., Oakley Browne, M., Piazza, M., …&amp; de Jonge, P. (2017). The Cross-National Epidemiology of Specific Phobia in the World Mental Health Surveys. Psychological Medicine, 47(10), 1744–1760. Cambridge University Press. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"12\">[12]</a></sup>.\n</p><h3 id=\"what-is-the-outlook-for-people-with-megalophobia-untreated-specific-phobias-may-continue-and-potentially-worsen-which-could-have-an-ongoing-negative-impact-on-your-quality-of-life-and-result-in-poor-mental-wellbeing-however-with-appropriate-treatment-the-symptoms-of-megalophobia-can-be-effectively-managed-to-improve-quality-of-life-and-functioning\">What is the outlook for people with megalophobia?</h3><p>Phobias can interfere with work, relationships, and everyday activities. Professional treatment can help reduce fear and avoidance and support improved functioning⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#specific-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 4: National Institute of Mental Health. (2025). Phobias and Phobia-Related Disorders. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"4\">[4]</a><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#treatment-phobias\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 7: National Health Service. (2022). Treatment - Phobias. NHS. NHS. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"7\">[7]</a></sup>.</p></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=\"megalophobia-fear-large-things\" value=\"1\" data-reference-number=\"1\" data-reference-format=\"393\">May, J. (2015). <em class=\"reference-title\">Megalophobia: Fear of Large Things.</em> Callaloo,38(1), 75. <a href=\"https://muse.jhu.edu/verify?url=%2Farticle%2F576182%3Futm_medium%3Dreferral%26utm_campaign%3Dlibra%26utm_content%3Dexternal_resource%26utm_id%3Dsite-library-megalophobia%26utm_source%3Dmentalhealth.com&amp;r=5381070&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-megalophobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">muse.jhu.edu</a>.</li><li id=\"anxiety-disorders-specific-phobia\" value=\"2\" data-reference-number=\"2\" data-reference-format=\"393\">American Psychiatric Association. (2013, text revision 2022). <em class=\"reference-title\">Anxiety Disorders – Specific Phobia.</em> In The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed. text rev.). APA. <a href=\"https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787.x05_Anxiety_Disorders?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-megalophobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">PsychiatryOnline</a>.</li><li id=\"specific-phobia\" value=\"3\" data-reference-number=\"3\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Samra, C.K., &amp; Abdijadid, S. (2022). <em class=\"reference-title\">Specific Phobia.</em> In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499923/?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-megalophobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">National Library of Medicine</a>. Accessed January 12 2023.</li><li id=\"specific-phobias\" value=\"4\" data-reference-number=\"4\" data-reference-format=\"393\">National Institute of Mental Health. (2025). <em class=\"reference-title\">Phobias and Phobia-Related Disorders.</em> National Institutes of Health. <a href=\"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/phobias-and-phobia-related-disorders?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-megalophobia&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=\"5\" data-reference-number=\"5\" 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-megalophobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Springer</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"neurobiology-fear-specific-phobias\" value=\"6\" data-reference-number=\"6\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Garcia, R. (2017). <em class=\"reference-title\">Neurobiology of Fear and Specific Phobias.</em> Learning &amp; Memory (Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.), 24(9), 462–471. <a href=\"https://learnmem.cshlp.org/content/24/9/462?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-megalophobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">learnmem.cshlp.org</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"treatment-phobias\" value=\"7\" data-reference-number=\"7\" data-reference-format=\"393\">National Health Service. (2022). <em class=\"reference-title\">Treatment - Phobias.</em> NHS. <a href=\"https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/phobias/?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-megalophobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">NHS</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"treatment-specific-phobias-eye-movement-desensitization-reprocessing-emdr-protocol\" value=\"8\" data-reference-number=\"8\" data-reference-format=\"393\">National Center for PTSD. (n.d.). <em class=\"reference-title\">Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD.</em> U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. <a href=\"https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand_tx/emdr.asp?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-megalophobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">ptsd.va.gov</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"mechanisms-exposure-response-prevention-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-effects-habituatio\" value=\"9\" data-reference-number=\"9\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Elsner, B., Jacobi, T., Kischkel, E., Schulze, D., &amp; Reuter, B. (2022). <em class=\"reference-title\">Mechanisms of Exposure and Response Prevention in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Effects of Habituation and Expectancy Violation on Short-Term Outcome in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.</em> BMC Psychiatry, 22(1), 66. <a href=\"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12888-022-03701-z?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-megalophobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Springer</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"implementations-virtual-reality-anxiety-related-disorders-systematic-review\" value=\"10\" data-reference-number=\"10\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Oing, T., &amp; Prescott, J. (2018). <em class=\"reference-title\">Implementations of Virtual Reality for Anxiety-Related Disorders: Systematic Review.</em> JMIR Serious Games, 6(4), e10965. <a href=\"https://games.jmir.org:443/2018/4/e10965/?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-megalophobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">games.jmir.org:443</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"self-care-tips-phobias\" value=\"11\" data-reference-number=\"11\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Mind. (2021). <em class=\"reference-title\">Self-Care Tips for Phobias.</em> Mind. <a href=\"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/phobias/coping-with-phobias/?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-megalophobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Mind</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"cross-national-epidemiology-specific-phobia-world-mental-health-surveys\" value=\"12\" data-reference-number=\"12\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Wardenaar, K.J., Lim, C.C.W., Al-Hamzawi, A.O., Alonso, J., Andrade, L.H., Benjet, C., Bunting, B., de Girolamo, G., Demyttenaere, K., Florescu, S.E., Gureje, O., Hisateru, T., Hu, C., Huang, Y., Karam, E., Kiejna, A., Lepine, J.P., Navarro-Mateu, F., Oakley Browne, M., Piazza, M., …&amp; de Jonge, P. (2017). <em class=\"reference-title\">The Cross-National Epidemiology of Specific Phobia in the World Mental Health Surveys.</em> Psychological Medicine, 47(10), 1744–1760. <a href=\"https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/psychological-medicine/article/abs/crossnational-epidemiology-of-specific-phobia-in-the-world-mental-health-surveys/A0EDD4B22E19CDB63269D7A34F2C21AA?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-megalophobia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Cambridge University Press</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\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/47686b37ff1465ff6711c0b5.jpg\" width=\"64\" decoding=\"async\"><div><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Author</p><h3 id=\"naomi-carr\"><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/naomi-carr\">Naomi Carr</a></h3><p class=\"article-bio-credentials\">Writer</p><p>Naomi Carr is a writer with a background in English Literature from Oxford Brookes University.</p><dl><div><dt>Published</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2023-03-29T12:22:12Z\">March 29, 2023</time></dd></div><div><dt>Updated</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2025-07-31T21:35:48Z\">July 31, 2025</time></dd></div></dl></div></section><section class=\"article-bio\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/9f1be5c5cc2b412cfab5f6cc.jpg\" width=\"64\" decoding=\"async\"><div><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Medical Reviewer</p><h3 id=\"morgan-blair\"><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair\">Morgan Blair</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=\"2023-03-29\">March 29, 2023</time></dd></div></dl></div></section></div></section><section aria-label=\"Related community\" class=\"article-topic-community article-topic-community-end\"><img alt=\"\" class=\"topic-community-banner\" height=\"800\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/fa402357b8ea978280a373a6.webp\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"/assets/responsive/17baa26e0104da78e4db1610.webp 800w, /assets/optimized/fa402357b8ea978280a373a6.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 961px) 236px, calc(100vw - 80px)\"><p class=\"topic-community-label\">Related community</p><h2>Anxiety</h2><p>A welcoming place for questions and perspectives about anxiety in everyday life.</p><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/community/anxiety\">Explore community</a></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 megalophobia?\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#what-is-megalophobia\" title=\"What is megalophobia?\">What is megalophobia?</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Symptoms of megalophobia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#symptoms-of-megalophobia\" title=\"Symptoms of megalophobia\">Symptoms of megalophobia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Causes of megalophobia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#causes-of-megalophobia\" title=\"Causes of megalophobia\">Causes of megalophobia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Diagnosing megalophobia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#diagnosing-megalophobia\" title=\"Diagnosing megalophobia\">Diagnosing megalophobia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Treatment for megalophobia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#treatment-for-megalophobia\" title=\"Treatment for megalophobia\">Treatment for megalophobia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Self-care for megalophobia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#self-care-for-megalophobia\" title=\"Self-care for megalophobia\">Self-care for megalophobia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Frequently asked questions about megalophobia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/megalophobia#frequently-asked-questions-about-megalophobia\" title=\"Frequently asked questions about megalophobia\">Frequently asked questions about megalophobia</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 Megalophobia Megalophobia Written by Naomi CarrMedically reviewed by Morgan Blair Published on March 29, 2023 · Updated on July 31, 2025 Megalophobia is an irrational and excessive fear of large objects, that can occur as a result of a negative experience or due to an unknown cause. Symptoms of megalophobia include anxiety or panic attacks in the presence of large objects but can be treated by therapy and medication. Key takeaways Megalophobia is an intense fear of large objects that may trigger anxiety, panic, and avoidance. Its causes can involve genetic vulnerability, learned experiences, and individual responses to threat. Assessment and psychological treatment can help reduce impairment, while medication may be considered for associated anxiety symptoms. What is megalophobia? Megalophobia is an intense fear of large objects, that can cause extreme feelings of anxiety and panic attacks when anticipating or being in the presence of large objects⁠[1]. This can lead to the avoidance of certain situations and environments and may cause a severe decline in quality of life. Megalophobia could develop as a fear of all large objects or of specific large objects, which may include: Large vehicles, such as airplanes, boats, lorries, or helicopters Large statues, monuments, or art installations Large animals, such as elephants, whales, or giraffes Large buildings, such as skyscrapers, hospitals, or malls Large expanses, such as oceans, the sky, or canyons Although not specifically mentioned in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), megalophobia is considered a specific phobia, which is in part defined by an irrational and disproportionate level of fear or anxiety when faced with a certain stimulus⁠[2]. Current research on megalophobia is limited, partially due to the fact that many people do not report or seek help for phobias⁠[3]. They may also be challenging to diagnose as symptoms of other conditions may appear similar. As such, further research is required to clarify the causes of and circumstances surrounding the development of specific phobias such as megalophobia. Subject matter expert Brian Thompson Ph.D. Evidence-based care for anxiety View experience Symptoms of megalophobia A phobia focused on large objects may involve fear, avoidance, and interference with everyday life. Possible difficulties include:⁠[2][3][4] Intense fear when encountering or anticipating large objects. Physical anxiety symptoms such as sweating, trembling, or a racing heart. Avoidance of situations involving feared objects. Distress or interference with work, relationships, and everyday activities. Causes of megalophobia The exact cause of megalophobia is not known and may differ from person to person. However, there are several potential causes and risk factors that can contribute to the development of a specific phobia. Genetics Research indicates that there is a strong heritability of specific phobias, as those with a specific phobia commonly have a relative with an anxiety disorder, phobia, or both, indicating a likelihood of a genetic predisposition⁠[5]. Brain functioning There have been studies looking into the neurobiology of fear and specific phobias that have found a potential difference in people with and without a phobia in the activation and function of the fear response in the amygdala. Therefore, this suggests that some people could have an increased sensitivity to fear that contributes to the development of a phobia⁠[6]. Past traumatic experience Phobias can be influenced by stressful or traumatic experiences, as well as genes and other factors. A frightening experience involving a large object may be relevant to someone’s fear, but it is not a necessary or sufficient explanation for every case⁠[4]. Diagnosing megalophobia Specific phobias are often not diagnosed, as many people do not seek help and simply avoid the stimulus that causes them fear or believe that their anxiety is caused by a different diagnosis⁠[3]. However, if you think you have megalophobia, it is important to seek a diagnosis so that you can receive appropriate treatment and prevent your symptoms from becoming worse or having further impact on your life. To diagnose megalophobia, you will be asked questions about your symptoms, relating to diagnostic criteria for a specific phobia from the DSM-5, which includes⁠[2]: Anticipating or being faced with the stimulus (large objects) causes intense feelings of anxiety, which may lead to prolonged or repeated avoidance. The associated symptoms cause distress and impair social and/or professional functioning. The level of fear and anxiety is disproportionate to the potential danger or outcome. These symptoms have persisted for at least 6 months. These symptoms cannot be explained by another condition, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or social anxiety. Treatment for megalophobia If fear of large objects restricts daily life, seek a professional assessment. CBT and exposure therapy are commonly used for phobias, with treatment adapted to the individual’s fears and needs⁠[3][4]. Therapy Behavioral therapy: Therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps to alter emotional responses and behavior that have been learned as a fear response, by providing skills to tolerate negative emotions, reducing distress caused by fear, and teaching coping techniques⁠[3][7]. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): This treatment helps people with PTSD process traumatic memories while attending to a back-and-forth movement or sound. If a phobia occurs alongside PTSD, a clinician can assess whether trauma-focused treatment is appropriate. Evidence for treating PTSD should not be treated as proof that EMDR is the preferred treatment for every specific phobia⁠[8]. Exposure and response prevention: Similarly, ERP also works by exposing the individual to a feared situation, while providing techniques to prevent negative responses and teach new and helpful responses⁠[9]. Virtual reality therapy: As a new treatment, virtual reality therapy utilizes virtual reality technology to provide safe exposure to a feared stimulus and gradually desensitize the individual, with the aim to eventually move on to real exposure to the trigger once tolerance is increased⁠[3][10]. Other therapies: Interpersonal therapy, family therapy, and other forms of therapeutic intervention can also be helpful for the individual to be provided with support and validation, also aiming to alleviate negative emotions associated with their phobia⁠[7]. Medications Although there are no approved medications for the treatment of a specific phobia, a medication may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms, including⁠[3][6][7]: Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as citalopram and sertraline, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as venlafaxine, and tricyclic antidepressants (TCA) such as clomipramine, may be used in the treatment of specific phobia to reduce feelings of anxiety. Antihistamines: Hydroxyzine, an antihistamine medication, has been found to be useful in the treatment of anxiety disorders and may help to reduce symptoms of a specific phobia. Anxiolytics: Benzodiazepines such as diazepam can be prescribed for short-term treatment of anxiety disorders and phobias but are not used as a long-term treatment due to their risks. Beta-blockers: Beta-blockers such as propranolol are commonly used to treat the physical symptoms of acute anxiety, such as a racing heart, and may also be helpful in managing the symptoms of a specific phobia. It is important to ensure you take your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor, as adverse effects can occur if you take too much, skip doses, or suddenly stop your medication, and this can worsen your mental and physical health. Find support that fits you Explore people and care options near you. Find careSelf-care for megalophobia If you have megalophobia, you may be able to reduce the impact of your symptoms with some self-help techniques, including⁠[7][11]: Talking to others: Communicating about your fears can help to lessen the impact of your anxieties and can potentially reduce irrational ideas and fears. Relaxation exercises: Calming activities, such as breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga, are effective at reducing anxiety and managing acute symptoms of a panic attack or severe emotional responses that may occur. Support groups: Attending a support group in person or online can provide an understanding and acceptance of your phobia and an opportunity to speak with people who have had similar experiences, which could reduce negative and distressing emotions. General health: By looking after your general wellbeing, with healthy eating, getting enough sleep, and engaging in regular exercise, you might be able to reduce the symptoms of anxiety caused by megalophobia. Frequently asked questions about megalophobia How common is megalophobia? The prevalence of megalophobia is not known, due to a lack of research and reporting of the condition. Although, research indicates that between 1-10% of the population experiences a specific phobia, with females being several times more likely to have a specific phobia than males⁠[12]. What is the outlook for people with megalophobia? Phobias can interfere with work, relationships, and everyday activities. Professional treatment can help reduce fear and avoidance and support improved functioning⁠[4][7]. References May, J. (2015). Megalophobia: Fear of Large Things. Callaloo,38(1), 75. muse.jhu.edu. American Psychiatric Association. (2013, text revision 2022). Anxiety Disorders – Specific Phobia. In The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed. text rev.). APA. PsychiatryOnline. Samra, C.K., & Abdijadid, S. (2022). Specific Phobia. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Accessed January 12 2023. National Institute of Mental Health. (2025). Phobias and Phobia-Related Disorders. National Institutes of Health. 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. Garcia, R. (2017). Neurobiology of Fear and Specific Phobias. Learning & Memory (Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.), 24(9), 462–471. learnmem.cshlp.org. Accessed October 10 2026. National Health Service. (2022). Treatment - Phobias. NHS. NHS. Accessed October 10 2026. National Center for PTSD. (n.d.). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. ptsd.va.gov. Accessed October 10 2026. Elsner, B., Jacobi, T., Kischkel, E., Schulze, D., & Reuter, B. (2022). Mechanisms of Exposure and Response Prevention in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Effects of Habituation and Expectancy Violation on Short-Term Outcome in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. BMC Psychiatry, 22(1), 66. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026. Oing, T., & Prescott, J. (2018). Implementations of Virtual Reality for Anxiety-Related Disorders: Systematic Review. JMIR Serious Games, 6(4), e10965. games.jmir.org:443. Accessed October 10 2026. Mind. (2021). Self-Care Tips for Phobias. Mind. Mind. Accessed October 10 2026. Wardenaar, K.J., Lim, C.C.W., Al-Hamzawi, A.O., Alonso, J., Andrade, L.H., Benjet, C., Bunting, B., de Girolamo, G., Demyttenaere, K., Florescu, S.E., Gureje, O., Hisateru, T., Hu, C., Huang, Y., Karam, E., Kiejna, A., Lepine, J.P., Navarro-Mateu, F., Oakley Browne, M., Piazza, M., …& de Jonge, P. (2017). The Cross-National Epidemiology of Specific Phobia in the World Mental Health Surveys. Psychological Medicine, 47(10), 1744–1760. Cambridge University Press. 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 Naomi Carr Writer Naomi Carr is a writer with a background in English Literature from Oxford Brookes University. Published March 29, 2023 Updated July 31, 2025 Medical Reviewer Morgan Blair 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. 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