beginning of content

Claustrophobia

6-minute read

Key facts

  • Claustrophobia is a type of phobia — an intense fear of being in an enclosed space.
  • Common situations that can trigger claustrophobia include being in lifts, tunnels, cars, planes or crowded rooms.
  • Claustrophobia can cause intense anxiety or panic attacks.
  • Claustrophobia can be successfully treated with psychological therapies.
  • Types of therapies include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and self-exposure therapy.

What is claustrophobia?

Claustrophobia is a type of phobia. A phobia is an irrational or disproportionate fear of an object, activity or situation. People with claustrophobia have an intense fear of enclosed spaces.

Many situations can trigger claustrophobia, including being in:

What are the symptoms of claustrophobia?

Symptoms of claustrophobia are similar to symptoms of anxiety, such as:

If you have claustrophobia you may:

Having claustrophobia is a very individual experience. Some people only feel mildly anxious when they are in a confined or crowded space. Other people feel extremely anxious and can experience a panic attack.

CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.

What causes claustrophobia?

The exact causes of claustrophobia aren’t fully understood. Here are some of the factors that may contribute:

When should I see my doctor?

If you experience feelings of fear which are ongoing and overpowering you should see your doctor or a mental health professional. Your doctor will be able to assess your symptoms and recommend the best course of action.

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.

How is claustrophobia diagnosed?

To diagnose claustrophobia, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, health history and recent life changes. Try to provide detailed answers about what you are experiencing.

Your doctor might:

Your doctor will check that no other issues are causing your symptoms. They can refer you to a specialist for more help, such as a:

ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.

How is claustrophobia treated?

Claustrophobia can be successfully treated. There are different treatment options, and your doctor can help you find the right one for you.

Your doctor may recommend seeing a psychologist to help you manage your claustrophobia. A psychologist can use different types of talking therapy to help you. Examples include:

CBT can help you to change a specific behavior (like a phobia) by helping you modify your thinking patterns and behavioral patterns.

Exposure therapy involves working with a health professional to gradually expose yourself to a situation that usually causes you fear.

Your doctor or psychiatrist might also prescribe medicines to manage some of the symptoms as part of your treatment.

Your health team can advise you about which treatment options may suit you.

Living with claustrophobia

Claustrophobia can make you feel very uncomfortable and anxious in confined spaces. You might change your behaviour and routines because of the fear of coming across confined spaces, or because of the fear of having a panic attack. If this happens, it's important to seek help.

Read more on Mental health helplines.

Complications of claustrophobia

If left unmanaged, claustrophobia can lead to a lower quality of life and other mental health issues. For example, you are more likely to develop other phobias or avoid places or activities that trigger your fear.

If you think you might have claustrophobia, speak to your doctor.

Resources and support

Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people?

Check your symptoms Find a health service

Healthdirect 24hr 7 days a week hotline

24 hour health advice and information you can count on

1800 022 222

Government Accredited with over 140 information partners

We are a government-funded service, providing quality, approved health information