Octophobia

When you have a particular phobia (a sort of anxiety disorder), you are afraid of something that will not damage you. Octophobia is a strong aversion to the number eight. Because numbers are always around us, octophobia can cause severe stress and even bodily problems. A person suffering with octophobia may recognize that their fear is unreasonable, yet they are unable to control it. It may disrupt personal relationships, employment commitments, or daily chores (for example, paying bills and knowing what time it is).

Specific phobias, such as octophobia, remain unknown to medical professionals. However, they believe it is frequently caused by a mix of:

• Genetics: People who have a family history of anxiety and particular anxieties are more prone to develop phobias.
• Superstitions and cultural significance: Some civilizations have passed down myths and customs involving the number eight. It is frequently associated with power, religion, or gods. The number 8 indicates the number of Wiccan festivals in a year as well as the number of days of Jewish Hanukkah. It is also important in Islam and Hinduism. When the number is turned on its side, it becomes the symbol for infinity.
• Traumatic encounters with the number: Someone who has had a terrible experience with the number 8 may develop octophobia. For example, getting reprimanded or slapped because of a poor math grade, or having a painful encounter in a house with the number 8 in the address.