WHY DARK ISN’T PEACEFUL FOR EVERYONE?
BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA
Darkness can trigger fear, anxiety, and discomfort for many, especially when alone.
But for some individuals, this fear goes beyond the ordinary—this is known as nyctophobia.
Nyctophobia is an extreme fear of the dark that can interfere with a person’s daily life.
It often begins in childhood and is typically linked to traumatic experiences, such as watching frightening movies or growing up without a sense of safety and protection.
Children who are left alone in dark rooms may develop this fear, which can persist into adulthood.
According to experts, this fear is rooted in human survival instincts inherited from our ancestors. In nature, danger increases at night, which trained the human brain to be more alert in the dark.
However, in some people, this fear becomes irrational and manifests as a phobia.
Symptoms of nyctophobia include shortness of breath, excessive sweating, stomach pain, and panic attacks.
Many people with this condition cannot sleep without light or feel intense fear when alone at night.
The American Psychiatric Association classifies nyctophobia as a type of anxiety disorder.
Treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and in some cases, medication.
While there is no exact data on the prevalence of nyctophobia in the Philippines, experts believe it is common, especially among children.
Cultural factors such as ghost stories and folklore may also contribute to the fear.
Understanding nyctophobia as a legitimate condition, rather than a source of amusement, is essential in supporting those who experience it.
