Heliophobia

Heliophobia is the fear of the sun, of sunlight, or of any bright light, and is classified as a type of specific phobia. People with heliophobia can experience marked anxiety, avoidance behavior, or panic when exposed to direct sunlight or strong artificial brightness, going out of their way to remain indoors, wear heavy coverings or dark eyewear, and plan activities around avoiding daylight hours. The condition is a psychiatric and psychological fear response rather than a physical sensitivity, distinguishing it from photophobia, a medical symptom in which bright light causes physical eye discomfort or pain as a consequence of an underlying condition such as migraine or corneal irritation, and from genuine physiological light sensitivity linked to certain skin or eye disorders. Because heliophobia is a specific phobia, it is typically addressed through psychological approaches such as gradual exposure and cognitive behavioral therapy.