Fear of heat (thermophobia)

Thermophobia is a fear of heat, which might mean dreading hot weather, avoiding saunas and hot baths, or feeling panicky in warm, stuffy rooms. Because feeling unwell in the heat can have physical causes, it is wise to check any real symptoms with a GP.

About this phobia

The name comes from the Greek therme, meaning heat. The word is used in two ways: for a fear of heat, and in medicine for heat intolerance, where the body struggles to cope with high temperatures. As a fear it is a rare term, and it can overlap with panic, since heat can bring on sensations such as a racing heart and sweating.

What it feels like

• Watching weather forecasts closely and dreading heatwaves
• Avoiding saunas, hot baths, sunny holidays or crowded warm spaces
• Panic when feeling flushed, sweaty or short of breath in the heat

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

Common questions

Is thermophobia a fear or a medical condition?

It can be either, which is why it helps to separate the two. Heat intolerance has physical causes that a GP can look into, while a phobia is mainly about fear and avoidance. Some people experience both together.

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