Fear of being robbed (harpaxophobia)

Harpaxophobia is a fear of being robbed. It can lead to checking locks many times, avoiding cash machines or certain streets, or feeling on edge in crowds. Some people struggle to relax at home or when travelling.

About this phobia

The word comes from the Greek harpax, meaning robber. It is an uncommon term found mostly on lists, with little clinical writing about it as a separate fear. The fear sometimes grows after a burglary or theft, or after one has happened to someone close.

What it feels like

• Checking doors, windows and bags over and over
• Scanning people nearby for anyone who seems suspicious
• Avoiding carrying valuables or going out after dark

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

Common questions

Is it a phobia or just being careful?

Sensible care, such as locking doors and keeping bags close, is normal. It becomes more like a phobia when the worry is constant, the checking takes up a lot of time, or it stops you going places. If the fear started after being robbed, a GP or specialist counsellor can help you talk through what happened.

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