Featured Phobia: Catoptrophobia (fear of mirrors)

Say that one three times fast. Catoptrophobia, catoptrophiblia, catroptohobi...Let's just call it fear of mirrors. This should be one we're all well aware of, and why not? Everyone is raised on some myth about a monster in the mirror, usually Bloody Mary, sometimes Candyman if you prefer horror movies to stories. When we're toddlers, we learn about object permanence, and examining your reflection is a major part of the process. It's also oddly magical in a manner of speaking. You see yourself, and deep down the primitive part of your soul may wonder whether that's actually you looking back, or something far more sinister.

Catoptrophobia isn't really about fearing the mirror itself. It's the reflection. Reflection of the self, of objects, or even words being mouthed. Some people find this fear so entrenched that even seeing a shiny surface that can reflect an image back, whether it's clear or not. A vast majority of sufferers associate mirrors with the supernatural, and these fears can often stem from religious or superstitious beliefs. Sometimes it merely relates to poor self image, as with those suffering from body dysmorphia.

Gradual exposure, psychotherapy, and 'talk therapy' through support groups are common ways of treating this fear. However, given that it can relate to concerns about the supernatural, even homeopathic remedies might have a place for the sufferer who believes in them. At the end of the day, my only real advice to you is fairly simple. You can run, you can even hide your reflection, but never break a mirror. I think you know why.

Additionally, I can't resist sharing this scene from my favorite Nightmare on Elm Street film (part 4), so for those who haven't seen it - - you may want to sit this one out.