Home Health- What is Phone Anxiety and Why Do Some People Avoid Taking Calls?
Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment
Are you avoiding phone calls for too long? Does the sound of a ringing phone make you feel sweaty and dizzy? If so, you may be experiencing phone anxiety, a very real condition that affects several people. But what exactly is phone anxiety, and why do some people avoid taking calls?
Phone anxiety, also known as telephobia, is characterized by a sudden surge of anxiety when the telephone rings. In today’s digital age, where communication is largely driven by clicks and taps, the phone has become more of a necessity than a luxury. However, there are individuals who fear and feel the urge to avoid talking on the phone, often coinciding with social anxiety disorder.
According to a report by The Conversation, a 2019 survey of UK office workers revealed that 76% of millennials and 40% of baby boomers experience anxious thoughts when their phone rings. As a result, 61% of millennials tend to avoid calls altogether, compared to 42% of baby boomers.
If you identify with these symptoms, there are things you can do to make phone conversations easier. While not everyone enjoys talking on the phone, when these symptoms interfere with your daily functioning, it may be a case of phone anxiety.
Common symptoms of phone anxiety include:
1. Delaying calls due to heightened anxiety.
2. Extreme nervousness during or after the call.
3. Worrying about what to say and fear of being judged for saying something wrong.
4. Physical symptoms such as nausea, increased heart rate, shortness of breath, dizziness, and muscular tension.
If you experience these symptoms for an extended period of time, it is recommended to seek professional help. Approaching mental health professionals should not be feared and can provide support in overcoming phone anxiety.
In conclusion, phone anxiety is a fairly common condition that can impact individuals of any age group. Recognizing the signs and symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment can help individuals manage and overcome their phone anxiety.