The Fear of Computers is Real – and It’s Called Logizomechanophobia

In a world where we are increasingly reliant on computers, it’s hard to imagine anyone being afraid of them. But the truth is, the fear of computers is very real, and it’s called logizomechanophobia.

Logizomechanophobia is an extreme fear of computers. It can manifest itself in a number of ways, including a fear of using computers, a fear of being near computers, or a fear of the technology itself.

For sufferers, even the thought of using a computer can cause anxiety and panic. In severe cases, logizomechanophobia can lead to agoraphobia, which is a fear of leaving home because you might have to use a computer. 

Interestingly, logizomechanophobia is relatively new; it wasn’t formally recognized as a phobia until the late 1990s. This makes sense when you consider how rapidly computer technology has evolved in recent years.

For many people, myself included, there was a time when we couldn’t imagine living without our computers. Nowadays, we use them for everything from ordering groceries to filing our taxes. It’s no wonder that some people struggle to keep up.

What Causes Logizomechanophobia?

There are a number of possible causes of logizomechanophobia. For some people, it may be due to a bad experience with technology; for instance, if you’ve ever had your computer crash and lose important data, that can make you more wary of using it again in the future. 

For others, it may be due to a lack of understanding about how computers work. When something is unfamiliar or we don’t understand it, it can be scary. This is especially true when it comes to technology because it seems like there’s always something new to learn. And let’s face it; learning how to use new technology can be daunting, even for those of us who are comfortable with computers. 

Finally, some experts believe that logizomechanophobia may be caused by our increasingly reliance on computers in everyday life. As I mentioned before, there was a time when most people didn’t have a need for a computer in their homes.

Nowadays though, they’re an essential part of daily life for many people. This dependence can lead to feelings of anxiety and powerlessness if something were to happen to our computers or if we were unable to use them for some reason. 

Symptoms of Logizomechanophobia

Symptoms of logizomechanophobia can include sweating, racing heart, difficulty breathing, and nausea. The mere thought of using a computer can trigger a panic attack. In severe cases, people may experience chest pain or fainting. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional who can help you manage your fears.

Another common symptom of logizomechanophobia is avoidance behavior. This means that sufferers will go out of their way to avoid using or being near computers.

For some people, this may mean not using a computer at work or avoiding places like libraries or coffee shops where they know there will be computers. In extreme cases, people with logizomechanophobia may become housebound, as they’re too afraid to leave their homes and come into contact with computers.

Some people might even suffer from dissociative disorder behaviors related to the fear of computers.

How to overcome logizomechanophobia

If you suffer from logizomechanophobia, there are a number of things you can do to overcome your fear. One of the most important things is to educate yourself about computers and how they work. The more you know, the less mysterious and scary they will seem.

It’s also important to start small and work your way up. If the thought of using a computer is too overwhelming, start by just being in the same room as one. Once you’re comfortable with that, you can try using it for simple tasks like checking your email. Gradually increase the amount of time you spend using it until you’re able to use it for more complex tasks.

If you find that you’re still struggling, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can work with you to identify the root cause of your fear and help you develop coping strategies. With the right help, you can overcome your fear of computers and lead a normal, healthy life.

Dave: A Day in the Life of Someone With Logizomechanophobia

I wake up in a cold sweat. I can feel my heart racing as the memories of what happened last night come rushing back to me. I try to shake it off and tell myself it was just a dream, but I know better. It was real. Too real.

I sit up in bed and take a few deep breaths, trying to calm myself down. I know I need to face my fears and get out of bed, but I just can’t make myself do it. I’m so afraid of what might happen if I use a computer again.

I try to remember the last time I used one without having a panic attack, but it feels like it was years ago. I used to be able to use them just fine, but now the mere thought of touching a keyboard or looking at a screen fills me with dread.

I swing my legs over the side of the bed and force myself to stand up. I have to go to work today, and I can’t afford to lose my job. I take a few deep breaths and try to gather my courage. I can do this. I have to do this.

I head to the kitchen and start my coffee maker, hoping that the caffeine will help me face the day ahead. As I wait for it to brew, I try not to think about the long day of work ahead of me. I know I’ll have to use a computer, and the thought fills me with anxiety.

I take my coffee and head to the living room, where my laptop is waiting for me. I sit down at the table and take a deep breath, trying to prepare myself for what I’m about to do. I slowly open the lid of the laptop and power it on, feeling my heart race as I wait for it to boot up.

I try to focus on my breathing and stay calm as I open my email inbox and start sorting through the messages. I’m relieved when I don’t have any new messages that require a response. I finish my coffee and close the laptop, feeling a sense of relief wash over me.

I head to the bathroom and take a long shower, trying to wash away the stress of the morning. I know I can’t avoid using computers forever, but for now, I’m just grateful that I made it through another day.

Conclusion

If you’re struggling with logizomechanophobia, know that you’re not alone. The good news is that there are ways to overcome your fear and get back to enjoying the benefits of modern technology.

If you’re not sure where to start, talking to your doctor or a mental health professional can help you develop a plan to slowly expose yourself to your fears in a safe and controlled environment until they no longer hold power over you. Remember, you are not powerless against your phobia; with help, you can overcome it and live a normal life despite your fears!

FAQ – Logizomechanophobia: Fear of Computers