Phobia triggered as woman's Facebook post goes viral

WARNING: If you have Trypophobia don't read further.


September 13, 2017
PHOTO: ISTOCK/INDY100

A video recently posted on Facebook, Instagram that went viral triggered a phobia many didn't even know existed. Bridgette Trevino, a 24-year-old Texan make-up artist, posted a video on her Facebook page showing her hand covered in small, bloody holes.

While this may not sound like something that could trigger a phobia, this post revealed that a surprisingly large number of people are affected by 'Trypophobia' -- a fear of small bumps and holes. The said phobia can lead to physical reactions including panic attacks and nausea.

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The pictures posted on Bridgette Trevino's Facebook profile subsequently terrified and enraptured people as the post was viewed more than 60,000 times.



However, the post also attracted concerned viewers who reported it to Facebook for failing to provide a trigger warning, which she was later required to add.

Bridgette also reported receiving messages on Facebook that were almost hysterical in nature, despite the photo being a visual illusion.

Lad Bible quoted her as saying, "People have gone as far as reporting my work and have sent me messages of concern to check I hadn't seriously hurt myself. I've even had threats to try to make me take down the video and pictures."

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She further added saying, "I understand that trypophobia is a real thing, although only a small population actually has this. A lot of people have claimed to have had panic attacks because of my work. I sympathise but it also only encourages me more. If it's not scary or doesn't get that response I'm not doing my job properly."

A follow-up video was added later, showing the makeup being removed in order to reassure people who thought the illusion was real.

COMMENTS (2)

just_someone | 6 years ago | Reply doesnt mention anywhere how she got those tiny holes in her hand...
zed | 6 years ago | Reply this has to be sickest thing I have seen in my life. I want to unsee it.
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