What is melanoheliophobia?

Melanoheliophobia is the fear of the sun or sunlight. People who suffer from this phobia are often afraid of being exposed to the sun and may go to great lengths to avoid it, such as only going out at night or wearing heavy clothing even in warm weather. They may also be afraid of being outdoors in bright light, which can cause anxiety or panic attacks.

The causes of melanoheliophobia are not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to other anxiety disorders, such as agoraphobia or social anxiety. It can also be a learned response to negative experiences in bright sunlight, such as sunburn or heatstroke.

Treatment for melanoheliophobia typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help individuals identify and challenge their fearful thoughts and develop coping strategies. Exposure therapy, which involves gradually exposing the individual to sunlight or bright light in a controlled setting, can also be effective for reducing anxiety and increasing tolerance. In some cases, medications such as anti-anxiety drugs may be prescribed to help manage symptoms.