Fear of shock (hormephobia)

Hormephobia is a fear of shock, usually meaning a sudden fright or jolt. People may dislike surprises, startle easily, or avoid jump scares, fireworks and sudden loud noises. Some live in a low-level state of bracing, ready for something unexpected to happen.

About this phobia

Hormephobia is a rarely reported term found mostly on lists of phobias, and those lists rarely make clear whether shock means a sudden fright, an electric shock or a nasty surprise. It has little or no clinical documentation. Related, better-known fears include ligyrophobia, the fear of loud noises.

What it feels like

• Jumping or feeling panicky at sudden sounds or movements
• Disliking surprises, even pleasant ones
• Avoiding horror films, fireworks or crowded, noisy places

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

Common questions

Why do I startle so easily?

Some people simply have a stronger startle response, and stress or poor sleep can make it worse. A very jumpy, on-edge feeling can also follow a frightening experience. If it is affecting daily life, it is worth talking to a GP.

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.

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