How is autophobia (monophobia) diagnosed?
How is autophobia (monophobia) diagnosed?
Autophobia (monophobia) isn’t a recognized phobic disorder in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Still, a mental health professional like a psychologist can diagnose phobias based on symptoms.
Criteria for a specific phobic disorder diagnosis include:
- Fear that persists for at least six months.
- Intense feelings of fear or anxiety when you’re alone, despite knowing you aren’t in danger.
- Immediate onset of symptoms when you find yourself alone or think about being alone.
- Anxiety or fear that causes you to avoid being alone.
- Extreme symptoms that interfere with your ability to work and enjoy life.