Many people experience intense panic every time a tremor occurs, which could indicate tremorphobia, the irrational fear of seismic movements. This fear can significantly affect the quality of life, even incapacitating those who suffer from it, affecting their activities, decisions and even the way they manage their life and that of their family. Mag. Mary Castro, psychologist of our clinic, gives us valuable information about tremorphobia.

What behaviors might indicate tremorphobia?

Fear of tremors is natural, since it arises as part of our survival instinct. However, some behaviors may indicate the presence of tremorphobia. They include:

• Fear persists despite several weeks having passed since the last tremor.
• Isolation due to fear of earthquakes and a reduced desire to socialize.
• Change of plans or activities due to insecurity in the face of possible seismic movements.
• Recurrent thoughts related to the tremors.

These behaviors can last for several months and significantly affect quality of life.

How to cope with tremorphobia?

• Talk to a person close to you about the fear you are feeling.
• Identify negative and fearful thoughts and try to stop them.
• Apply some breathing technique.
• Look for a professional to work on psychological treatment.

This last recommendation is important when excessive fear begins to affect your life and your direction, causing you to miss opportunities or limit your personal and professional growth. For example, you might not accept a job in an office on high floors just for fear of a seismic event. In these cases, having the support of a specialist can make a big difference in your well-being.

Mag. Mary Castro
Psychologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma