Emetophobia: Suffer less with treatment

I recently posted on Instagram (@kohlertherapy) about Emetophobia, and it motivated me to discuss the fear of vomiting further, emphasizing the crucial point that it is treatable. You might think that no one enjoys vomiting, but emetophobia goes beyond that. Many individuals find it so challenging that it affects their daily lives and becomes an incessant thought loop. It can manifest as:

Fear of vomiting in a public space

Timing events around meals

Avoiding foods

Checking dates

Physically checking your body often internally or externally

Having a "safety medication" on hand for treatment of nausea

Staying away from anything that shows or represents vomiting

Canceling plans due to fears

Not being present in day to day life due to mentally feeling stuck

& much more

I've often observed this phobia accompanying OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) and even evolving into an eating disorder. It's a complex issue that requires understanding. This is where therapists trained in ERP (exposure and response prevention) play a crucial role. These therapists are adept at comprehending the fears related to vomiting and identifying the safety behaviors that perpetuate the cycle. In each session, the therapist collaborates with the client at their own pace to diminish behaviors linked to the fear. This helps to realign the response to fear and grants clients freedom. It's challenging, but it is worthwhile.

Imagine a day, an hour or even a week where you are freed from the thoughts, and are one step closer to more time with the things you value.

Reach out, get connected!