Mycophobia's Cousin - I'm terrified of mold

by Badger
(Arkansas)

I'm terrified of mold.

Not mushrooms, though. Not all fungi.

Just mold.

This has caused problems for me both in my home, workplace, and daily life. Trouble is, I haven't been able to find it listed as a phobia anywhere. Just mycophobia.

It's definitely irrational. Well, mostly. But it's not just a health risk I'm afraid of--I'm terrified of the idea of something growing on me. I don't know what you would call that.

I've overcome a phobia before, so I suppose it's just a matter of trying very hard in a similar fashion, but this seems to be... more severe. It's been ten years and I haven't been able to find much release.

The best I've been able to do is not let it invade my thoughts when I'm cleaning, and if I do come across it, take a very deep breath, vacate the area, and go wash my hands. Then tell someone about it.

My roommates and coworkers now very well know what it means when I use the phrase, "I tried."