Foody phobia
Question
This might sound odd, but I have an abnormal fear of ketchup or tomatoes, for a long time I have been trying to find the name of the phobia, however I do not know if it really exists, can you tell me what it's called and if it's real?
Answer
A phobia is defined as having a strong, irrational fear of an object or situation. More common phobias include specific things such as insects, infections or flying. Agoraphobia is a fear of being in places where one feels "trapped" or unable to get help, such as in crowds, on a bus, or standing in a queue. A social phobia is a marked fear of social or performance situations.
There is an extensive range of phobias. Everyone is different and may react to things in various ways. Phobias are very common. Sometimes they start in childhood for no apparent reason; sometimes they emerge after a traumatic event; and sometimes they develop from an attempt to make sense of an unexpected and intense anxiety or panic. You may wish to consider some of these areas if you are looking at the underlying reasons for your phobia.
Unfortunately, the name of your phobia of ketchup or tomatoes could not be found, but Cibophobia or Sitophobia or Sitiophobia are the names given to a fear of food.
If you'd like to discuss your fear further you can contact Triumph Over Phobia on 0845 600 9601. Alternatively, the No More Panic website contains some useful information about different types of phobias, advice about how to live with or overcome them, and a message board.
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