what is phasmophobia fear

Phasmophobia is an intense fear of ghosts or supernatural things. It is a type of specific phobia that can interfere with a persons life, making it difficult to be alone and sleep. The term "phasmophobia" derives from Greek φάσμα, phásma, meaning "apparition" and -φοβία, -phobía, meaning "fear". People with a fear of ghosts may experience symptoms such as panic attacks, difficulty sleeping alone, intense anxiety, intense sense of dread or impending doom, and avoiding being alone. The fear of ghosts may be related to fear of the dark, and other phobias such as a fear of being alone (autophobia) may contribute to developing phasmophobia. Treatment for phasmophobia falls into two categories: therapeutic techniques and medicine. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common therapy treatment for phobias, including phasmophobia. A mental health specialist will work with the person to understand the source of their fear and then help them develop coping mechanisms they can deploy when they sense the fear rising. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can ease the emotional and irrational reaction to fear and may reduce symptoms quickly.