Acrophobia is an intense fear of heights that can cause significant anxiety and distress. People with this phobia may experience panic attacks when they are at high places, such as tall buildings, bridges, or even steep hills. This fear can lead to avoidance behaviors, where individuals steer clear of situations that involve heights.
Symptoms of acrophobia can include sweating, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and a feeling of losing control. Treatment options often involve therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals confront and manage their fears. In some cases, exposure therapy may also be used to gradually desensitize the person to heights.