Here's Everything You Need To Know About Submechanophobia

Phobias, those mysterious and often perplexing fears that can send our hearts racing and palms sweating, are a fascinating aspect of the human experience. People have different fears in mind, from common ones like spiders or heights to more obscure phobias that many can't understand. One phobia that many would find quite obscure is Submechanophobia.

What exactly is Submechanophobia?

Now that the tragic incident of the Titanic submersible has come to light, this phobia might definitely make a lot more sense. Submechanophobia is used to describe an irrational fear or aversion towards submerged machinery or man-made structures beneath the water's surface. One study by Rachel Menzies and colleagues (2017) explored the fear of man-made objects in the water, which can be closely related to submechanophobia. The researchers found that fear responses to submerged objects were influenced by factors such as perceived danger, past experiences, and the level of familiarity with the objects. The study concluded that fear of submerged objects may be influenced by a combination of cognitive and emotional factors.

Another study conducted by Arne ?hman and Susan Mineka (2001) investigated the evolutionary origins of specific phobias, including fears related to submerged objects. The researchers proposed that fear responses to certain stimuli, such as snakes or spiders, are evolutionary adaptations that once served to protect humans from potential threats. Although this study did not specifically focus on submerged machinery, it suggests that fear responses to objects in specific contexts could be influenced by evolutionary factors.

NOAA/Institute for Exploration/University of Rhode Island

One possible cause of submechanophobia is trauma. Past incidents involving submerged machinery, such as accidents or disasters, can leave a lasting impact on individuals and create a fear response. These traumatic experiences may lead to the development of submechanophobia as individuals associate submerged machinery with danger and negative emotions.

Evolutionary factors have also been suggested as a possible cause of submechanophobia. Some researchers propose that the fear of submerged machinery could be an extension of a natural human instinct to fear hidden or unfamiliar objects in the water. This instinct may have once served as a survival mechanism to avoid potential threats or dangers, such as predators or hidden hazards.

What are the signs and symptoms of Submechanophobia?

While there may not be several studies for this phobia in particular, the symptoms of this phobia are pretty much the same as those of other phobias. Here are some indications:

Anxiety becomes intense

Individuals with submechanophobia often experience overwhelming fear or anxiety when exposed to images, videos, or real-life situations involving submerged machinery. This fear can be disproportionate to the actual threat posed by the submerged objects.

There are proper physical symptoms of anxiety

People with anxiety know when they may feel it when they get nervous, feel shortness of breath, or even shake in extreme cases. People with this phobia may also show symptoms of anxiety, which can also include an increased heartbeat rate. These symptoms can manifest when they encounter or even think about submerged machinery.

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People may start showcasing avoidance behaviours

Individuals with submechanophobia may go to great lengths to avoid situations or places that may expose them to submerged machinery. They may avoid swimming in open waters, participating in water-based activities like boating or diving, or even avoiding locations where submerged machinery may be present, such as harbours or industrial areas.

There are intrusive thoughts that are difficult to control

Individuals with submechanophobia may experience intrusive thoughts or mental images related to submerged machinery. These thoughts can be distressing and difficult to control, causing increased anxiety and unease.

There are negative emotional reactions

Individuals with submechanophobia may experience a range of negative emotions when exposed to submerged machinery, including sadness, anger, or a sense of helplessness. These emotions can further contribute to their overall distress and avoidance behaviours.

Distress when it comes to the water-related environment

Being in or near bodies of water that potentially contain submerged machinery can provoke anxiety and fear. This includes natural bodies of water, such as lakes or oceans, as well as artificial environments like swimming pools or reservoirs.

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What are the treatments for Submechanophobia?

Just like other phobias, there are several treatments that can help with this one as well. Here are some ways to get over them:

Cognitive-behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a widely recognised and effective therapeutic approach for treating specific phobias. It focuses on identifying and challenging irrational thoughts and beliefs associated with submerged machinery. Through cognitive restructuring, individuals learn to replace their fearful thoughts with more realistic and adaptive ones. In addition, behavioural techniques such as systematic desensitisation and exposure therapy are utilised to gradually expose individuals to their feared objects or situations in a controlled and supportive environment.

Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation, can be beneficial in managing anxiety symptoms associated with submechanophobia. These techniques help individuals learn to calm their physical and mental states, allowing them to cope with anxiety more effectively.

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Medication

In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of submechanophobia. Medication is typically used in conjunction with therapy and should be administered under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

Cognitive Restructuring

This technique involves identifying and reframing negative or distorted thoughts associated with submerged machinery. By challenging irrational beliefs and replacing them with more realistic and balanced thoughts, individuals can gradually reduce their fear and anxiety.

Phobias in general can have a massive mental impact on people, and while there may be studies on some as to why they happen, many of them have reasons that need proper research. However, there are always ways to get over them and get better when it comes to those fears.