Have you ever heard of cherophobia? It might sound like a complex term, but it simply refers to the fear of being happy. A fear that everything seems too good to be true, and disaster is just around the corner, which can be paralyzing.

While most of us experience this feeling from time to time, some people simply cannot get over it. They actively avoid the good feelings to circumvent the bad.

Origins and symptoms of cherophobia

Cherophobia comes from the Greek word “Chairo,” which means “I rejoice.” With the suffix, the literal translation becomes a fear of rejoicing or happiness. Cherophobia isn’t listed in the most recent Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), but is classified by mental health professionals as a form of anxiety.

Symptoms include:

See also

  • Dreading social gatherings;
  • Rejecting promising work or life opportunities;
  • Believing that showing happiness makes you a bad person;
  • Refusing to join your friends for fun activities;
  • Constant worry about impending negativity;
  • Difficulty experiencing genuine happiness.

The Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology surveyed 14 national groups on the cultural notions related to happiness. They found people across groups who “endorse the belief that happiness, particularly an immoderate degree of it, should be avoided.” One theory surrounding the cause of this condition can be traced back to early childhood. 

Root causes of cherophobia

Cherophobia often stems from past traumas or negative experiences associated with moments of happiness. This theory suggests that experiences in childhood can create a link between pleasure and pain, which then becomes intrinsically linked in the brain. As a result, individuals who have experienced disappointment or pain following a period of joy may develop the subconscious fear of expressing happiness and believe that something painful must always follow something pleasurable.

For example, having too much fun with friends perhaps resulted in a spell in the principal’s office. Or maybe revealing a first crush to a sibling was met with ridicule. The loop is formed at an early age and persists as the sufferer ages.

Cherophobia, like any irrational fear, is a habit of thought that can be re-progammed in the mind. With hard work and repetition, new neural pathways can be formed. One study suggests that retraining your brain could take as little as 12 weeks, though it varies from person to person.

Assessing Cherophobia: Joshanloo’s Fear of Happiness Scale

Assessing cherophobia, the fear of happiness, necessitates a thorough examination of an individual’s psyche, behaviors, and past experiences. Several methods, both observational and psychological, can shed light on the complexities of this fear and guide individuals toward overcoming it.

One of the most popular approaches to self-assesting cherofobia is using Mohsen Joshanloo’s fear of happiness scale. The researcher suggests reading through the statements and rating the extend to which a person agrees with them on a scale from 1 (strongly disagree) to 7 (strongly agree). Here are the statements in his happiness scale:

  1. I prefer not to be too joyful because usually joy is followed by sadness.
  2. I believe the more cheerful and happy I am, the more I should expect bad things to occur in my life.
  3. Disasters often follow good fortune.
  4. Having lots of joy and fun causes bad things to happen.
  5. Excessive joy has some bad consequences.

The higher the score you get, the more likely you are to have cherophobia.

Recovery

According to Carrie Barron M.D. of The Creativity Cure, there are steps you can take if you’re suffering from Cherophobia. Here’s the program she outlined over on Psychology Today:

1. See how the problem started
2. Talk it through with someone
3. Identify pleasures you avoid
4. Enter the discomfort zone by indulging
5. Tolerate the anxiety
6. Tell yourself that the “proper” thing is to be happy right now
7. Repeat and add more time, until you hit 30-60 minutes or more
8. Know that those who protect their joys tend to be more productive
9. Be aware that “wasted time” is when we integrate and cement important information or come up with creative ideas
10. Accept that play (spontaneous experience) is good for health.

Psychological Techniques for Overcoming Cherophobia

When “don’t worry, be happy” doesn’t cut it, one must look for the root of the problem. If Cherophobia is holding you back, the good news is it doesn’t need to. A good therapist will be familiar with this condition and can help you get back on track. Because everyone deserves to be happy — yes, even you.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a proven therapeutic approach for addressing cherophobia. By identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, individuals can reframe their perspectives on happiness and mitigate fear.

Exposure Therapy

Gradual exposure to positive experiences can desensitize individuals to the fear of happiness. Exposure therapy, under the guidance of a mental health professional, helps individuals confront and overcome their fears.

Mindfulness and Meditation

Practicing mindfulness and meditation can be effective in reducing anxiety and promoting a positive mindset. These techniques empower individuals to live in the present moment and embrace joy without fear.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cherophobia, the fear of being happy, is a complex emotion that can significantly impact mental well-being. However, with understanding, support, and the right strategies, individuals can overcome this fear and lead fulfilling lives. Embracing positivity, seeking professional help when needed, and cultivating resilience are key steps toward breaking the cycle of fear and negativity.

Articles updated on February 9, 2024.

•February 9, 2024