fear of loved ones Dying.?

Question

I have had this fear since I was 4. I would sit up and listen to my mom's breath at night to make sure she was ok. I am 35 and still think about this at least twice a week. This sometimes keeps me up at night. I have researched online and only found a phobia called Thantophobia, but this seems like it is just a fear of dying. Again, Im not worried about myself but my loved ones going before me. Is this a phobia?

Actually nothing happened at age 4 - that is just the earliest I can remember keeping myself up about it.

Answer 1

It is normal to feel some concern about the passing of loved ones and during times of grief dwell on these thoughts. You didn't say what happened when you were 4 but from your tone it sounds like you lost a family member. Sometimes a therapist or a member of the clergy can help you work through your fears. It really sounds like you're moving in the right direction.

And about the phobia - unless it's a paralyzing fear I'm not sure that it counts as a phobia - just unresolved issues.

Answer 2

I've had the exact same thing since about the same age. I used to have nightmares about it. I think it is normal though I was diagnosed with GED or "Generalized Anxiety Disorder" a while back. I went on a drug called Effexor to help with the anxiety. While I still have a fear of my loved ones dying it is significantly better.....

Answer 3

I think this is just part of being human. You might be a tad more sensitive about it than the rest of us. If it keeps you from becoming involved with people because you're so afraid they'll die, then you should probably get help.

Answer 4

i have a fear that my wife will die, but that is just since her heart attack last year. your problem seems like a phobia. you should see somebody about it and get to the root of your problems.

Answer 5

hey it is very likely that it is a phobia. maybe talk to your primary doctor or get some psycotherapy/talk therapy to help with the fear.