The Fear Of It All…

Friday 21st September 2012

A phobia is an abnormal intense and irrational fear of something that, in reality, poses little threat. Common phobias include closed-in places (claustrophobia), open spaces (agoraphobia), and fears of heights, needles, spiders and snakes. Phobias can be developed around virtually anything; but they can be overcome.

Most phobias develop in childhood, but they can also arise later in life, sometimes as the product of a frightening experience. It might seem far-fetched to suggest that a man could become irrationally fearful of a particular type of TV programme, but that is exactly what happened to 62 year old Derek Burns.

According to a recent Daily Telegraph report Derek has been unable to watch cookery shows with Jamie Oliver, Delia Smith and the Hairy Bikers ever since his wife of 14 years stabbed him in the chest four times with a sharp kitchen knife.

Apparently Mrs Burns, who was drunk at the time and is now serving six years for wounding with intent, took an eight-inch blade to her husband. Such knives are essential equipment for good cooks and celebrity chefs, and so Mr Burns’ entertainment options would seem to have been limited as a further outcome of his ordeal.

Now we all know that the image of a knife on a TV screen is harmless. Even if the chef were to have a minor accident with it the viewers would be untouched, although they may feel normal human concern for someone who’s been hurt.

But throw in a phobia of knives, however understandable the cause, and there is no question of engaging with such rational thinking.

So where next? Some people with phobias allow them to rule their lives. Agoraphobics can stay indoors for years because it is just too terrifying to step out into the garden or the street. Someone with claustrophobia may refuse to use lifts or the tube in London at considerable inconvenience to themselves and others.

A fear of cooks’ knives could point to a lifetime of ready meals, prepared fruit and veg, mince and eggs, none of which needs much cutting.

Hypnotherapy and the so-called talking therapies can provide a way out. Another solution that is worth considering is to attend the UCKG HelpCentre for one of their Friday evening sessions.

Using simple words with great sincerity, the pastors and congregation pray  against all negativity – and what could be more negative than a life-constraining phobia?