Understanding Thalassophobia: When Fear of the Ocean Becomes Overwhelming

Understanding Thalassophobia: When Fear of the Ocean Becomes Overwhelming

Dr. Brenda K. Wiederhold, Co-Founder and Clinical Psychologist at the Virtual Reality Medical Center (VRMC) and the Interactive Media Institute, was recently featured in a WebMD interview on thalassophobia—an intense fear of large bodies of water. While it’s natural to feel cautious during a storm at sea, thalassophobia can cause extreme anxiety or even panic attacks in situations where no real danger exists.

As Dr. Wiederhold explains:

“Patients often describe a ‘fight or flight’ response. Some patients describe a full-blown panic attack while others describe ‘strong discomfort.’”

“The good news is that specific phobias (including thalassophobia) are among the most treatable anxiety disorders,” says Dr. Wiederhold.

Evidence-based treatments include:

• Exposure therapy – gradually and safely confronting water-related fears
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – reshaping anxious thought patterns
• Virtual Reality Therapy – using immersive simulations to practice coping skills in a controlled environment

These approaches can help patients regain control, reduce avoidance, and improve quality of life.

🔗 Read the full interview with Dr. Wiederhold on WebMD: What Is Thalassophobia?