There Really Is a Cruise Ship Phobia

There Really Is a Cruise Ship Phobia Phobias Types Print Cruise Ship Phobia The exact nature of cruise ship phobia differs from person to person By Lisa Fritscher Lisa Fritscher is a freelance writer and editor with a deep interest in phobias and other mental health topics. Learn about our editorial policy Lisa Fritscher Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on October 01, 2018 Matteo Colombo/Getty Images More in Phobias Types Causes Symptoms and Diagnosis Treatment A fear of cruise ships and a phobia of cruise ships are not the same and sometimes only a trained clinician can tell the difference. Cruise ship phobia is not a fear of the ocean or even of boats in general. In fact, you may feel no fear about going on your fathers small boat, but large ships terrify you. You dont have to be in physical proximity to a cruise ship or even on board to have a phobic reaction. For example, photos and drawings of the Titanic could cause anxiety. Even a simple mention of the ships name could trigger you. The exact nature of this fear differs from person to person, which is common with phobias.   Treating Cruise Ship Phobia Fortunately, you can treat cruise ship phobia like you would any other phobia. If you think you have a fear of cruise ships, speak to a psychologist, who can help you diagnose your phobia.   There are two main ways to treat a phobia: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure-based therapy. A psychologist can help you use CBT to replace any irrational thoughts you may be having with rational thoughts. For example, if you fear the cruise ship will sink, your therapist may walk you through statistics about cruise ship safety as well as ship design and emergency preparedness.   Exposure-based therapy works on treating your phobia head-on. When you are afraid, it is natural to want to run away or avoid the object causing you fear. Exposure therapy can help you conquer your fears by addressing and engaging them. Exposure therapy is conducted gradually, meaning you wont have to fully face your fears on day one. Rather, you may start by talking about cruise ships or looking at some photos. After a period of time, determined by your psychologist, you may work your way up to visiting a ship or even spending some time onboard.