Anxiety is often irrational, but that doesn’t make it feel less real. However, it becomes a problem when we develop anxiety that interferes with our ability to live life to the fullest.
Take cherophobics for example. Many of us have met people who seem to just refuse to be happy. But those with cherophobia are genuinely concerned that if they do something to make themselves happy, that misery will follow – as if somehow the universe needs to balance out that way.
It’s common to wonder when the other shoe will drop when life is going a bit too well. But those with cherophobia get stressed out at even the thought of having fun.
There’s not a lot of research on the disorder yet, and it has not been added to the DSM to qualify as a mental illness.
But there is one interesting piece of research on cherophobia that gives 4 explanations as to why someone may want to avoid being happy or displaying happiness, and it may depend on culture and upbringing:
- A fear that happiness will bring on bad luck
- The belief that one doesn’t deserve to be happy while others suffer
- The belief that expressing happiness can cause envy in others who will want to prevent your happiness
- The idea that pursuing happiness is detrimental to your own soul or to the common good
Frankly, it makes a bit more sense when we see how it may play out in people.
Sadly, cherophobics may not only avoid doing things that make them happy, but they may also pass up opportunities to have meaningful and joyful relationships.
And on that note, we’re going to go call a friend and pour a glass of wine and be thankful for what we have! — WTF fun facts
Source: “Cherophobia Explained: Fear of Happiness & How to Overcome It” — PositivePsychology.com