Fear of rabies or going mad (lyssophobia)

Lyssophobia is a fear of rabies or of going mad. It might show up as worry after any animal scratch, or as a nagging fear of losing control of the mind. Any real bite or symptoms should be checked with a GP or NHS 111, and the same goes for worries about mental health.

About this phobia

The name comes from lyssa, an old word for rabies that also carried a sense of madness or rage, which is why older writers used the term for both meanings. It is a rare term today. The fear of going mad is now more often discussed as part of anxiety, where people worry that their thoughts mean they are losing control.

What it feels like

• Strong worry after contact with animals, even pets
• Fear that racing or strange thoughts mean losing control
• Checking for symptoms and seeking reassurance often

Explore more unusual fears in the rare phobias A to Z, or browse the common phobias.

Common questions

Does worrying about going mad mean it is happening?

Fear of losing control is a common part of anxiety, and it is usually a sign of anxiety rather than of someone losing their mind. A GP can talk through the worry and look at any real symptoms. Rabies, meanwhile, is not found in UK land animals, although some bats can carry a related virus.

How can you help?

I use hypnotherapy and NLP to change how your mind responds to the thing you fear, so the old alarm stops going off. Sessions are one to one over Zoom, and you get a recording of the hypnosis to listen to afterwards.

How many sessions will I need?

Many clients notice a real difference after one 90 minute session. If the fear goes back a long way, three sessions gives us room to make the change stick.

Ready to start?

Book a £49 consultation call and we’ll talk through your fear, or take the free suitability test first.

See all session options and prices