Fear of the colour yellow (xanthophobia)

Xanthophobia is a fear of the colour yellow. It might mean avoiding yellow clothes, flowers or rooms, feeling uneasy at the sight of yellow signs, or even disliking the word itself.

About this phobia

The name comes from the Greek xanthos, meaning yellow. It is a rare term, and when people describe it the fear is often reported as linked to a childhood event or another strong memory. Fears of other colours also appear on phobia lists, though few are well documented.

What it feels like

• Avoiding yellow objects, clothing or decor
• Unease or a sinking feeling when yellow appears unexpectedly
• Choosing routes or shops that steer clear of yellow signs or buildings

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

Common questions

How can someone be afraid of a colour?

Colours can become tied to memories, and the brain can link a neutral colour to a frightening moment. Over time the colour alone can set off the same alarm, even when the original memory is unclear.

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