Gephyrophobia Defined: Fear of crossing bridges – bridges either driven or walked across. There may be an accompanying urge to pull or jump off, or extreme panic and disorientation may set in. Sometimes coupled with a fear of heights, the fear of crossing bridges is more specifically about structures made by human hands. Those with anxieties over bridges are often also afraid of lookout towers, roller coasters, etc.
Gephyrophobics!! I can’t pronounce it, but I am one of those that goes to panic when I find myself in this situation. My recent road trip to Louisiana was one that Gephyrophobics should not do. As a matter of fact, Gephyrophobics should never drive Interstate 10 along the Gulf Coast. Ever wonder what Amusement Park Roller Coasters designers of do when they retire. They go to work for the department of transportation and design bridges and interchange flyovers for interstate travel. I just hate them!! As a matter of fact, after this past week, I can truly say my favorite place to cross the Mississippi River is in Brainerd, MN! Certainly Not Baton Rouge.
From the Archives — originally published on the Opelika Daily News on February 10, 2003. View the original page.
