Emetophobia

What is it?

Emetophobia is a fear of vomiting or seeing others being sick. Those who experience emetophobia may also fear being out of control while they are being sick or fear being sick in public, which can trigger avoidance behaviours. It is a condition that is not widely diagnosed even though it is a fairly prevalent anxiety disorder.

Emetophobia varies enormously in how it affects people; most worry excessively about being sick even though they are less likely than the general population to be sick because of all the steps they take to avoid being ill. For instance, some people may be unable to leave home if there are any tummy bugs going around and they will avoid family and friends who have an illness.

DIY self diagnosis

If you can answer YES to most of the questions it is likely that you are affected by emetophobia. During the last 6 months:
  • Have you experienced a fear of being sick or being seen being sick?
  • Have you experienced a fear of seeing/hearing others vomiting?
  • Have you taken significant steps to minimize the risk of your catching a sickness bug, which have interfered with your daily life?
Anxiety UK strongly advises that people seek further information and guidance from their GP who will be able to make a formal diagnosis.

Emetophobia

Emetophobia Fact Sheet

This fact sheet gives a detailed overview, as well as a look at some of the evidence based approaches to treating emetophobia.		 Download Here

Recommended resources

Emetophobia MP3 is designed to help those who experience emetophobia, to get their fears under control. You can purchase yours from the Anxiety UK online shop here.

Emetophobia can have a huge impact on daily life, from avoiding certain foods and alcohol to worrying about travel, pregnancy, hygiene and caring for loved ones when they are ill. This self-help guide will help you to better understand emetophobia and give you the tools to overcome it.