Claustrophobia
What causes claustrophobia?
Claustrophobia is often caused by a traumatic event experienced during earlychildhood. For example, adults may develop claustrophobia if, as a child, they:
- were trapped or kept in a confined space
- were bullied or abused
- had a parent with claustrophobia
Claustrophobia can also be triggered by unpleasant experiences or situations, such as turbulence when flying or being stuck in a tube tunnel between stations.
A child growing up with a parent who has claustrophobia may develop claustrophobia themselves, by associating confined spaces with their parent'sanxiety and feeling helpless to comfort the person they loved.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Read about claustrophobia, including common triggers, physical and psychological symptoms, causes, treatment, plus help and support.
Triggers of claustrophobia
Many different situations or feelings can trigger claustrophobia. Even thinking about certain situations without exposure to them could be a trigger. Common triggers of claustrophobia include: lift
Symptoms of claustrophobia
Panic attacks are common among people with claustrophobia. They can be very frightening and distressing and symptoms often occur without warning. As well as overwhelming feelings of anxiety, a panic
What causes claustrophobia?
Claustrophobia is often caused by a traumatic event experienced during earlychildhood. For example, adults may develop claustrophobia if, as a child, they: were trapped or kept in a confined space
Treating claustrophobia
Most people with a phobia are fully aware that they have one. Many people live with claustrophobia without having it formally diagnosed and take great care to avoid confined spaces. However, getting
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