Fear of meningitis (meningitophobia)

Meningitophobia is a fear of brain disease or meningitis. It can lead to frequent checks for a rash, worry over every headache, or anxiety whenever meningitis is in the news. Any worrying symptoms should be checked with a GP or NHS 111 straight away.

About this phobia

The name links to the meninges, the layers that cover the brain, from the Greek meninx, meaning membrane. It is a rare term and is usually seen today as a form of health anxiety focused on one condition. Concern is common among parents, as meningitis is well known for needing fast treatment.

What it feels like

• Checking for rashes or a stiff neck many times a day
• Treating any headache as a possible sign of something serious
• Strong worry when news or friends mention meningitis

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

Common questions

How do you know if worry about meningitis has become a phobia?

Being alert to warning signs is sensible, especially with children. It may be more than that if checking takes up a lot of time, disturbs sleep, or the worry continues after a doctor has given the all clear. A GP can help with both the symptoms and the worry.

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