Telephobia / Phone ring syndrome

Telephobia, or phone ring phobia syndrome, refers to the fear of making or attending phone calls. This is becoming prevalent among the new generation of kids as they experience anxiety and societal neglect. They fear even the sound of ringing phones and are unable to attend the calls they receive. They are more comfortable with texting and video calling than attending phone calls.

What may be the reason?

This anxiety has been prevalent among youngsters as they are more comfortable with texting. Making small talk and engaging in conversations creates crippling anxiety within them that may seem bizarre. However, widespread evidence has been found to be associated with such conditions. This has been evident mostly among medical students as they are under increased risk of stress and pressure.

This may be associated with attending phone calls to receive instructions regarding procedures and assignments, test results, interviews, or a desire to be alone, among other factors. It may also be linked to psychological disorders like depression and anxiety.

Ways to prevent

Several schools are taking the initiative to make students more comfortable with attending calls by providing skits and programs to encourage healthy conversations.

Breathing exercises could be done to calm the nerves before attending a call.

Anticipating the calls beforehand and being prepared for them could be helpful.

Attending the calls at your own pace—by ignoring the calls if you are uncomfortable and then calling back after you have calmed down—can also be effective.