How is ephebiphobia treated?

How is ephebiphobia treated?

You can try practicing relaxation techniques (such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing) to help you cope with your phobia triggers. These can help relieve anxiety and other symptoms you experience when you see teenagers.

A mental health professional can help you overcome your fear of teenagers. Treatments may include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a form of psychotherapy (talk therapy). Talking about your fear and situations that trigger it helps you understand why you think and feel that way. You can use this knowledge to change how you react to teenagers.
• Exposure therapy: During this type of psychotherapy, your therapist gradually exposes you to images and situations involving teenagers. The exposure helps desensitize you to your fear of teens. You’ll gradually work your way up to being able to frequent shopping malls and other places where teens tend to hang out. This type of psychotherapy works for 90% of people with specific phobias.
• Hypnotherapy: During hypnotherapy, your therapist induces a hypnotic state or trance. Hypnosis can help you access memories, thoughts and emotions related to your fear of teenagers. You may be able to change your thought patterns while under hypnosis. And you can address findings from hypnotherapy during psychotherapy sessions.
• Medications: While you go through therapy, your healthcare provider may prescribe anti-anxiety drugs or antidepressants. These medications can help you cope with symptoms related to your fear. You may not need medication after you finish therapy.