Emetophobia
Emetophobia: when being sick feels terrifying
You may check food, watch for nausea and avoid places where someone could be sick. STAND DOWN helps you understand why the fear takes up so much space.
When nausea feels like danger
A stomach rumble or a feeling of fullness can make you fear you might vomit. You may also worry about someone else being sick nearby.
Checking dates, washing repeatedly or watching others for signs of illness can offer brief relief. STAND DOWN explains how the fear and checking can keep each other going.
Plans built around the fear
Restaurants, public transport and crowded events may feel hard to manage. You might study menus or look for a quick exit before going anywhere.
Sharing a meal with friends can become a test of how safe you feel. Explaining the fear to others isn't always easy.
At work and on the move
Shared spaces at work may keep you on alert for illness. Checking how you feel or watching colleagues can pull your attention away from tasks.
Travel, team lunches or jobs involving crowds may be harder to accept. You may spend extra time and money working around the fear.
Understand the alarm around sickness
STAND DOWN's ordered audio sessions teach its explanation of why sickness can feel so threatening. You can listen in your own space without being put into a feared situation.
The science video and guided visualisations support the audio. CHUCK, your AI programme guide, can answer questions about the teaching.
Recognising the pattern
- You check food dates or watch others for signs of illness.
- Fullness or a stomach ache sets off panic.
- You avoid meals out, travel or crowded events.
- You plan exits and try to stay close to a place you feel safe.
Begin the emetophobia audio teaching
Start STAND DOWN privately and follow its explanation of the sickness alarm in order. Start listening.
Begin Recovery Programme — Checking price… one-timeFurther reading
Read about other experiences of anxiety and fear.
