People who have trypophobia suffer from an irrational fear of clusters of holes. Some examples of triggers include bubbles, lotus flowers, and aerated chocolate. Trypophobes report nausea, trembling, and severe anxiety when confronted with their triggers. Unlike some phobias that may dominate people’s thoughts, trypophobia seems only to affect sufferers when they see holes. Although little is known about the origins of trypophobia, some scientists have speculated that the phobia may have an evolutionary basis. Some venomous or poisonous animals have clustered hole patterns on their skin, so the reactions that some people have may be a survival response. For example, the blue-ringed octopus, and several venomous snakes have visual features that may help explain trypophobia. It is important you know what types of clusters of holes trigger your anxiety and other negative effects so that you can begin to confront these objects. Make a list of all of the things that seem to set off your trypophobia and how you react to them.  For example, are you bothered by bubbles or anything resembling bubbles? Do honeycomb patterns bother you or just actual honeycombs? Are you upset by certain animals because of the patterns on their skin? Try to identify as many triggers as possible. Try to describe how your triggers make you feel as well. Do you get nauseous? Do you feel anxious? Do you tremble? Identify the specific reactions that you have to your triggers. If one type of clustered hole pattern is scarier to you than another, try ranking the items on your list. That way you can start by dealing with the least frightening one on your list and work your way up. Some people can trace their trypophobia to an event, which may help you to understand and deal with your fear. Think back to when your trypophobia started. Do you remember when you first discovered that clusters of holes are revolting or frightening to you? Like all phobias, there isn't just one answer. For everyone, it is different. Try to discover what it is that disturbs you, whether it's a bad memory, a bad experience, or just simply disgust.

Summary: Understand trypophobia. Know that trypophobia may have an evolutionary basis. Identify your triggers. Try to discover the underlying causes of your fear.


Your parents still want to talk to you. Call them to see how they are doing. Fill them in on your life. This gesture shows them that you care and understand that they care about you. It will surely brighten their day to hear from you.  If you are busy, set up a weekly time for you to talk to them. Having a schedule will make it easier for you to remember that you need to touch base. Text them. More and more parents are picking up their cell phones and texting. Sending them a quick, “How are you?” or funny picture during the day will let them know they are on your mind and still important in our life. If you talk to one parent more than the other, see if you can talk to them both at the same time. That way, you can all connect at once and it will save everyone some time. There is nothing like face-to-face interaction with people. Your parents would love to give you hugs and see your expressions as you talk. Take time to go and sit down with them and you will see them smile.  If you live far away, video message. Buy a webcam if you do not have one on your computer, or download an app to your phone or tablet if it has a camera. Help your parents to install a program if they do not know how. Take them out and treat them. Though a house visit is nice, try and take your parents out to keep things interesting. Try activities with them that you think they would enjoy like joining classes or finding events around your communities. Not everyone’s parents are mobile, or maybe they no longer enjoy driving alone. Pick them up and take them to their appointments, the store, or different activities they might be apart of. This will be much appreciated by them and give you time to spend together. Both of those will make your parents happy.  Turn off the radio if you are in the car. Use this as a time to connect with your parents by talking and catching up on your lives. Your parents will enjoy the conversation with you and it will help you to bond on a more mature level. Make a day of it. Perhaps your mother or father has a few stops. Take them to every place, and maybe treat them to lunch or dinner. This is a great opportunity to spend time with each other and it would make your parents very happy if you take advantage of that. If you do not live near your parents, or even if you do, take time to write out a thoughtful letter and put it in the mail. It is quick to call them, but putting the thought into a hand-written note will be a nice surprise for them. If you need help writing a letter, look at https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Friendly-Letter for suggestions.  Email them if they are online. This is always a great way to contact your parents. Though it is not as personal as a letter, it is still thoughtful and would make them very happy to know that you are thinking about them. Send pictures in your letters. That way, they can see your face and hang onto the image. If you have children or other family members you live with, send pictures of them as well. This will delight your parents to see how everyone is doing and how the children have grown. Have your kids write letters or make pictures to send them. Your parents would love to hear from their grandkids. It would definitely make them happy to receive a handwritten note or drawing from your children.
Summary: Call your parents regularly. Go visit them. Make time to help them do activities. Send them letters.