Claustrophobia in an Indian College Student: A Case Study

Claustrophobia, a specific phobia characterized by an irrational fear of confined or crowded spaces, can significantly impair daily functioning and quality of life. This case study examines the life of a 19-year-old Indian college student who struggled with undiagnosed claustrophobia since childhood. The study highlights her symptoms, the challenges she faced in a densely populated urban college environment, and the process of diagnosis using the Claustrophobia Questionnaire (CLQ) and clinical interviews. The findings underscore the importance of timely diagnosis, mental health awareness, and the need for accessible mental health services in educational institutions. This case also emphasizes the role of standardized assessment tools in identifying specific phobias and the broader implications for mental health literacy in India.