Symptoms and treatment methods of acrophobia

The symptoms of acrophobia mainly manifest as strong physiological reactions such as fear, palpitations, sweating, and trembling at heights. Treatment methods include cognitive-behavioral therapy, systemic desensitization therapy, medication therapy, respiratory training, and progressive exposure therapy.

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy alleviates fear by changing patients' erroneous perceptions of heights. Therapists will help patients identify and challenge irrational fearful thinking, such as the idea that falling from heights is inevitable. The patient gradually establishes a high level of rational cognition and cooperates with behavioral exercises to reduce avoidance behavior. This method requires patients to actively participate in mind recording and reality testing, and usually requires multiple repetitions to be effective.

2. Systemic Desensitization Therapy

Systemic desensitization therapy uses a gradual approach to expose patients to fearful stimuli. Therapists will first guide patients to engage in relaxation training, establish a sense of security, and gradually transition from imagining high-level scenarios to low-level exposure in real environments. The duration of each exposure is adjusted according to the patient's tolerance level, and anxiety levels are continuously monitored during the process. This method requires patients to cooperate in completing homework, and the entire course of treatment may last for a long time.

3. Medication Treatment

Severe acrophobia symptoms can be treated with anti anxiety drugs as prescribed, such as paroxetine, sertraline, and other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or short-term use of benzodiazepines such as alprazolam. Medication can alleviate acute anxiety reactions, but it requires psychological treatment to solve the fundamental problem. During the use of medication, adverse reactions such as drowsiness and dizziness may occur, and the dosage should be strictly adjusted according to medical advice.

4. Breathing Training

Abdominal breathing training can help patients with acrophobia control hyperventilation during anxiety. The patient needs to learn the technique of slow deep breathing and activate the parasympathetic nervous system by prolonging the exhalation time. Daily practice can be quickly called upon during anxiety attacks, and it is more effective when combined with muscle relaxation techniques. This method is safe and has no side effects, making it suitable for long-term use as an adjuvant therapy.

5. Progressive Exposure Therapy

Progressive exposure therapy allows patients to gradually adapt to high stimuli in a controlled environment. The therapist will develop a personalized exposure ladder, starting from low anxiety scenarios such as standing on a low stool and gradually increasing the height and duration of stay. Evaluate and adjust after each exposure to ensure that patients can tolerate the current stage before moving on to the next level of difficulty. This method requires patients to overcome initial discomfort and persist in completing the entire exposure plan. Patients with acrophobia can engage in moderate aerobic exercise in their daily lives to enhance balance and body control. Low intensity exercises such as yoga and tai chi can help alleviate anxiety. Pay attention to regular eating habits and avoid excessive intake of caffeine and alcohol. Establish a regular schedule to ensure adequate sleep. Try relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation to cultivate awareness and acceptance of fearful emotions. When symptoms seriously affect daily life, professional psychological help should be sought in a timely manner to avoid long-term avoidance behaviors that worsen symptoms.