Telephobia: Why answering a simple phone call now triggers anxiety for millions

In a world where smartphones have become a part of daily life, the simple act of answering a phone call is causing anxiety for many. This condition, called telephobia, is marked by fear or discomfort when making or receiving phone calls. It is increasingly being recognised as a real mental health concern, especially among young adults and students. The issue goes beyond shyness or preference for texting. It reflects deeper psychological stress linked to constant digital exposure and social pressure. As online communication replaces real conversations, experts are starting to explore how this shift affects mental wellbeing and social interaction in subtle but serious ways. The term “telephobia” was first introduced in 1992 to describe fear or anxiety related to phone calls. It is now r