When I think of vacation I think about the ability to decompress from a generally fast-paced and sometimes stress-filled life. I like to think of being able to spend downtime simply relaxing with no set agenda and no pressing engagements. However, there are some who would not consider this anything remotely enjoyable. Those who fear sitting or being idle are said to have Thaasophobia.

Visit any mall and you will find people answering their cell phones. They are texting, turning on speaker phones and talking with groups. In their automobiles they are using wireless technology to speak without touching a phone. At home those phones continue to ring and some are adding video capabilities to their conversation. However, for some there is a profound fear of phones. These individuals live with what is known as Telephonophobia.

The sight of a beautiful building with symmetrical lines and design can provide great pleasure for many who find joy in precise and balanced design. The same pleasure can be derived from precise lines in a photograph, painting or clothing line. The opposite reaction can induce fear known as Symmetrophobia .

In many religious ceremonies there are multiple uses of symbolism both figurative and in the form of icons or various objects. In computer design there are many text symbols that can be used to create something altogether new in software to hardware design. Those who fear symbolism are said to suffer with Symbolophobia.

When someone develops an intense and persistent fear of imbibing alcoholic beverages, they suffer from Dipsophobia. This phobia can occur for a variety of reasons…from religious beliefs, to the fear of loss of control…

“George Lassos the Moon”. It’s a phrase from the Christmas classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life” and it signifies having it all when you have the moon. If you have a fear of the moon you are said to have Selenophobia.

Virtually every horror movie known to mankind features at least one scene where fear is portrayed in the form of shifting shadows. When this on screen anxiety shows up in real life it is known as Sciophobia – and the fear often doesn’t leave at the end of the closing credits.

The fear of bicycles is known as Cyclophobia. Many people never learn to ride bikes when they are children, and they develop a phobia about them. However, this is not the only reason why Cyclophobia can occur…

The fear of glass or crystal is known as Crystellophobia. People suffering from this phobia report feelings of intense anxiety when they are around glass or crystal objects…but why?

The fear of computers is known as Cyberphobia. In today’s world, an intense and persistent fear of being around and using computers can be a real deterrent to career, communication, and even relationships.