Understanding Germophobia

Conditions

No one likes germs, but some people may experience extreme anxiety at the thought of touching a surface that could contain germs, bacteria, or other microorganisms. And this anxiety may be becoming more common.

Researchers have linked broad virus-centric outbreaks—like the COVID-19 pandemic—to an increase in mysophobia, more commonly known as germophobia.

While worrying about germs is normal, this anxiety disorder can interrupt day-to-day life and may require some additional help from a mental health professional.

Causes of germophobia

Germophobia can develop due to someone’s brain chemistry or from a traumatic event or experience. Family history also plays a role. If someone in your family has an anxiety disorder, you may be at an increased risk of also developing a phobia as well.

Symptoms of germophobia

Germophobia comes with emotional, psychological, and behavioral symptoms, such as:

Avoiding “dirty” environments, such as soil
Excessively washing hands
Over-using sanitizers and antibiotics
Difficulty functioning in places perceived to have germs, like work and school
Intense fear of germs
Anxiety related to germ exposure
Thinking about germ exposure leading to illness or negative outcomes

Managing germophobia

The pandemic has only made germophobia more widespread, but there are ways to cope and receive support.

Experts believe that basic knowledge about microbes could be important in reducing or preventing germophobia. How dangerous are germs, really? While it’s true that there are serious health effects due to certain germs and viruses, a majority are not seriously harmful, and your immune system can fight them off.

Taking reasonable, safe steps to avoid illnesses that stem from germs can also be helpful. Get cold and flu shots and other vaccines as precautionary actions backed by science.

Seeking help

If you’re struggling with more severe and persistent symptoms of Treatment is also available for germophobia through therapy and medication. If you or a loved one is dealing with germophobia and have pandemic-related anxiety, Valley Oaks Health is here to help.

August 8, 2022

Perfectionism: Understanding the Hidden Mental Health Risk

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Conditions

Perfectionism is often seen as a positive trait that pushes us to achieve and excel. But when the pursuit of perfection becomes an obsession, it can have serious consequences for mental health. Perfectionism can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and a sense of inadequacy that’s hard to shake.

Beyond Physicals: How Regular Checkups Aid Mental Wellness

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Treatment

When we think of health screenings, we often consider them solely as a tool for catching physical illnesses early. However, regular checkups also play a significant role in supporting mental wellbeing. Beyond helping prevent and manage physical health conditions, screenings can reduce anxiety, provide peace of mind, and encourage a proactive approach to health that benefits both mind and body.

From Imposter Syndrome to Confidence: Overcoming Self-Doubt

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Self-Care

Have you ever felt like a fraud, worried that your achievements are just luck, and feared that others will eventually discover you’re not as competent as they think? If so, you’re not alone.

Perfectionism: Understanding the Hidden Mental Health Risk

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Conditions

Beyond Physicals: How Regular Checkups Aid Mental Wellness

•

Treatment

From Imposter Syndrome to Confidence: Overcoming Self-Doubt

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Self-Care

Have you ever felt like a fraud, worried that your achievements are just luck, and feared that others will eventually discover you’re not as competent as they think? If so, you’re not alone.

Your Body’s Warning Signals: When Physical Symptoms Indicate Mental Health Issues

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Self-Care

It’s easy to overlook physical symptoms when thinking about mental health. We often associate mental health with emotions or thoughts rather than the aches, pains, or discomforts that show up in the body. But the mind and body are linked, leading physical symptoms to sometimes be early indicators of underlying mental health issues.