Nyctophobia – or extreme fear of the dark – is a condition mostly associated with children, but it’s not uncommon in adults. Many continue to feel a deep sense of dread when plunged into darkness as they grow older, leading to sleep disturbances and anxiety problems. So what is not normal? Why does it occur? And how can you treat it?

Firstly, a certain amount of fear is perfectly natural. Darkness represents the unknown, which for centuries has been a source of potential danger for human beings. In fact, non-pathological fear of darkness is considered an adaptive human trait that improves survival rates since it encourages caution in potentially threatening situations. However, when this apprehension becomes all-consuming and starts to affect daily life and well-being, then it becomes abnormal.

Nyctophobia is frequently traced back to traumatic experiences in an individual’s past often associated with the dark. Growing up hearing scary stories or watching horror movies that take place at night can also trigger an intense fear of being in the dark. On a physiological level, being in low light conditions can induce mydriasis (dilation of the pupils), which can create a distorted perception and contribute to fear response.

Treating nyctophobia involves several steps:

1) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): An effective method for many phobias, CBT works by changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. With professional help, one can learn to manage their fear rather than let it control them.

2) Exposure Therapy: This approach involves gradually placing patients in darker environments under close supervision. The idea is to desensitize them to darkness step by step.

3) Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga have been shown to reduce anxiety levels significantly.

4) Lifestyle changes: Adopting better sleeping habits and creating an environment conducive for relaxation helps manage this fear more effectively.

5) Self-care: Maintaining good physical health through regular exercise and balanced nutrition also plays an essential part in managing stress levels – crucial for managing fears or phobias.

In conclusion, while fearing darkness might seem like just a relic from our distant past designed to protect us from predators lurking in shadows, when this fear exceeds reasonable limits, it’s important not only to understand what is causing it but also how best to cope with it. The first brave step will be seeking help – remember that there’s no need to suffer alone.