PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Some individuals experience a sense of fear when crossing large bridges. Technically known as gephyrophobia, this is an abnormal and persistent fear of crossing bridges. When combined with acrophobia, the fear of heights, the experience of crossing big bridges can be truly terrifying.
For those who struggle with these fears, the Delaware River and Bay Authority offers a special escort program. By calling ahead, individuals can arrange to meet an escort on the side of the road before crossing the bridge. These escorts engage in conversations with drivers to help alleviate their fears as they make the crossing.
"It's always better to keep the conversation going and that distracts them from their fear," explained Sgt. Steve Burkhead of the Delaware River Authority.
"I usually tell people to just focus on the road," Burkhead continued. "It's the same road in front of you as you get out back on the highway once you cross the bridge. So just focus on the road and you'll be OK."
Burkhead noted that individuals offer various reasons for their fears, and while most people make it across without issues, the officers are always prepared to assist anyone who needs support.
"It's a little dangerous, but we do it, you know," he said. "Just because we don't know what we're walking into, you know, we're definitely cautious of that, and we kind of have to read the body language a little bit to make sure."
The team is expecting to get more requests for escorts after the bridge collapse in Baltimore.
What is gephyrophobia?
Gephyrophobia is the abnormal, persistent fear of crossing bridges.
A specific phobia is an intense, irrational fear of something that poses little or no danger, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
Phobias may stem from bad experiences, genetics, learned behaviors, or brain function and structure, according to the Mayo Clinic. If a phobia is affecting your daily life, talk with a doctor or health care provider about getting help. For most people, therapy can help, the Mayo Clinic says.
What is acrophobia?
The fear of heights is called acrophobia. It is a type of anxiety disorder, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Being nervous and cautious is normal, but acrophobia can entail a more intense fear related to ladders, balconies, bridges and other things. Acrophobia is one of the most common phobias, affecting 3% to 6% of people.
