Facing your fear of the doctor: tips for easing medical anxiety

What is iatrophobia?

Phobias are overwhelming fears that some of us have in response to specific things or events. They can result from a distorted view of danger about a situation, animal, experience, or object.

Intense phobias can disrupt your normal activities, causing you to go to great lengths to avoid the triggers of your fear. In some cases, phobias can significantly impact the quality of your life - particularly if you have iatrophobia.

Dr Paul Ch'en, GP and joint-founder of The Oxford Longevity Project, explains that iatrophobia is a fear of doctors or any medical treatment. It falls under the category of specific phobias - where you may feel anxiety, panic, or avoidance when thinking about or encountering doctors, medical professionals, hospitals, or treatments.

"This might develop from previous negative medical experiences, fear of illness, or even specific anxiety about a certain medical procedure," he says. "If you have iatrophobia, this fear can interfere with seeking necessary medical care - which of course can have serious consequences for your health."

"While not everyone affected would be diagnosed with a full-blown phobia," adds Ch'en. "A significant number of people show varying levels of fear or anxiety relating to medical visits."

What causes iatrophobia?

There are several reasons you might feel afraid or anxious about visiting the doctor or receiving medical treatment.

Ch'en explains that people who already suffer from GAD, panic disorder, or other specific phobias have a greater chance of developing iatrophobia. Phobias can sometimes run in families - whether due to genetic predispositions, or learned behaviours from parents or other family members.

"Popular media often portrays doctors or medical professionals in stressful or negative lights," he says. "This can amplify fears - especially if you have little direct medical experience."

Are other phobias associated with iatrophobia?

Iatrophobia often overlaps with other phobias - especially those connected to medical settings, treatments, or health issues.

How to treat iatrophobia

Iatrophobia treatment often involves talk therapy, relaxation techniques, and gradual exposure to medical appointments to manage anxiety.

CBT

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is an effective approach for managing anxiety, and can help you overcome your fear of visiting the doctor.

"Along with relaxation techniques - such as meditation - CBT can help people you identify and change negative thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours relating to your fear of medical environments," says Ch'en. "For example, thoughts like "doctors will always give me bad news" are addressed and re-framed into realistic, less anxiety-inducing beliefs."

Exposure therapy

By gradually exposing yourself to situations that trigger your fear, you can slowly overcome your anxieties around going to see the doctor.

Ch'en suggests that gradual exposure therapy can - over time - desensitise you to your fears. This may involve visualising a doctor's visit, watching medical shows, or even just entering a clinic. The process is carefully controlled and gradual, starting with the least anxiety-inducing step.

"Doctors can play a part in helping patients with this," he says. "When I've had a patient with iatrophobia, I've tended to go above and beyond to establish rapport. I try to be empathetic to whatever the causes are for their iatrophobia."

Building trust

If the root cause of iatrophobia is a lack of trust towards medical professionals, stemming from a bad - or perceived bad - experience - Ch'en believes that small, positive steps to rebuild trust are key to regaining your cooperation.

"I believe the best approach to building trust is to listen to and acknowledge your concerns and expectations, while also addressing unhealthy behaviours in a kind, caring manner," he says.

What to expect from a doctor's appointment

Ch'en explains that a doctor's role is to offer support and guidance throughout your healthcare journey - whether that involves interventions such as medicine, therapy, clinical testing, or motivational advice.

However, a big part of our job is listening, so providing you with accurate and relevant information during your appointment is essential for effective treatment.

"When you meet your doctor, we'll typically ask what brings you in today. This is your opportunity to explain your symptoms, concerns, or the reason for your visit," says Ch'en. "Doctors are trained to listen and assess your situation, so provide us with as much detail as possible."

"Be open and honest, and have all relevant information about your health and lifestyle to help your doctor understand your situation better," he says. "It can be helpful to write down key points during your appointment - especially instructions about medicines or tests."

He adds that you should always ask if anything is unclear, or if you need more information about your diagnosis or treatment.

It's common to feel anxious about seeing the doctor, even without a phobia. However, overcoming these concerns or fears is crucial for your health. While it might seem easier to put off making an appointment, remember that a doctor's visit could save your life.