Fear of slime (myxophobia)

Myxophobia is a fear of slime. It can be set off by slugs and snails, by slimy food textures, or by the kind of slime children play with. Gardening, cooking and even helping with crafts can become something to avoid.

About this phobia

The word is linked to the Greek myxa, meaning mucus or slime. It is rarely reported and mainly appears on lists of phobias. Strong reactions to slime often have as much to do with disgust as with fear.

What it feels like

• Gagging or pulling back from anything slippery or sticky
• Avoiding slugs, snails and wet garden paths
• Refusing foods with a slimy texture, such as okra or oysters

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

Common questions

Is a fear of slime really about disgust?

Often, yes. Many people find slime disgusting rather than dangerous, and disgust can produce reactions as strong as fear. Whatever the mix, it matters if it gets in the way of everyday life.

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