Ophidiophobia, also called ophiophobia, refers to the fear of snakes. If is one of the most common phobias, which is also under the broader zoophobia or fear of animals. Why Do We Fear Snakes? Though this phobia is experienced by millions all over the world, many people have yet to see a snake in person. So, this begs the question: how is this fear generated? Studies suggest that humans have grown an innate tendency to sense snakes, and other harmful animals (spiders, tigers, bears, among others), and learn to fear them. Experts say that the fear originated from man's survival instincts. Snakes are generally harmful creatures that primitive humans avoided most of the time. Early humans were conditioned to fear snakes, which in turn was passed from generation to generation. Though humans are not born with this kind of fear, they are often exposed to negative portrayals of snakes in the media and other mediums. Young people are conditioned to believe that snakes are dangerous and even deadly, which at an early age, if not properly educated, can develop into ophidiophobia. Signs of Ophidiophobia The fear of snakes affects many people, and you are probably one of them. Being afraid of snakes because of their venom is rational fear, especially when they are roaming freely and within your reach. When you fear snakes even though they are caged and incapable of causing harm, then it becomes irrational fear. When the fear causes extreme anxiety, panic attacks or disability, even within a considerably safe area, then it is not merely rational fear, but ophidiophobia. Causes of Ophidiophobia Though most people consider childhood experience as the main culprit of ophidiophobia, other studies prove that other causes are more influential. For example, the snake is a Biblical symbol of evil. This belief heightens people's fear and conditions them to fear reptiles even more. Besides the Biblical reference, snakes are also viewed as dangerous and harmful by those who watch television shows and movies. Snakes are almost always depicted as synonymous with evil and death. Treatment for Ophidiophobia

• Medication. As with any other anxiety disorder, medication can reduce the symptoms; however, this should only be done under your doctor's advice.

• Psychological Therapy. This type of approach often goes along with prescription medication. It restores your normal fear response and eventually eliminates medication dependence.

• Self-Help Techniques. There are a number of self-help anxiety management techniques you can try, such as breathing exercises, positive self-talk, and relaxation-imagination exercises. By incorporating such techniques in your everyday life, you can gradually face your fears. You can also use pictures of snakes tp confront your fear. You can then move on to caged snakes, then eventually live harmless ones. Once you have exposed yourself to snakes without being harmed, you will then realize that such fear can be overcome.

Step-by-Step Approach to Overcoming Ophidiophobia

Draw a small snake shape on a piece of paper. This will allow you to confront your fear by visualizing the animal and having the courage to interpret it.

Work up to the biggest and most accurate depiction you can manage. This will allow your mind to visualize the scariest snake possible, which upon drawing it, gives you the courage to acknowledge the creature.

Look at black-and-white photographs of snakes.

Look at colored photographs of snakes. By viewing snakes of different hues and colors, you are conditioning your mind to distinguish various types of snakes. In the process, you are mentally exposing yourself to a wide array of snakes.

Look at videos of snakes. When you have diminished your fear of snakes through still pictures, you should proceed to videos. By looking at how snakes move, you are actually conditioning your mind to face your fear of an actual encounter.

Visit a zoo and look at snakes through secured glass compartments. Start at a distance, then move closer. Do not worry, snakes cannot pass through glass enclosures—that's for sure! This will allow you to face your fear physically. Once you get past this step, most likely you have overcome ophidiophobia.

Handle a snake. This is optional, but if you feel compelled to get rid of any doubt in your heart regarding your fear of snakes, you may want to ask pet shops or private zoos to let you handle one. This will greatly change your impression on how snakes act.

Close Encounters of the Slimy Kind What do you do when you are confronted by a snake? Do you scream and perform a tap dance? Do you wait for the extermination team to arrive at the location? Or do you simply wait for divine intervention? Well, you can just follow these guidelines and expect to live for years to come:

• Snakes are best left alone. Most snakebites occur when people try to handle them, prompting the reptile to defend itself.

• Be familiar with various snake species. Not every snake is venomous. Differentiating snake species is difficult, especially for someone not knowledgeable enough about the animal. Be familiar with the colors and skin patterns of different snakes. This can help you distinguish venomous species from non-poisonous ones.

• Be on the lookout for snakes, especially during outdoor activities. For those who are out on outdoor adventures with potential snake sightings, be sure to have a keen eye and proper materials on hand. From the proper outdoor attire to first aid kit, be sure to prepare things that can save you a trip to the morgue.

• Know the nature of the beast. Snakes are cold-blooded animals that rely on external sources of heat. During fall and winter, snakes are often seen warming themselves on rocks, paved roads, and sidewalks. During summer and warmer conditions, snakes often avoid open areas and are much more active during nighttime. Newborn snakes are often spotted during warmer seasons, with the majority of them looking for prey close to dwindling waters sources.

• Keep your area safe. If you happen to dwell in a place where snakes are prevalent, you may want to regularly check for a potential snake shelter. Build fences or other preventive structures that can keep the snakes away from your property.

You must partake in mental and physical methods to overcome this fear. The tips and guidelines here are merely words of encouragement that merit no significance in your life if you choose to suppress your fear. The only way to overcome ophidiophobia is to acknowledge your weakness and have the strength to prevail over such frailty.