The first step in dealing with any kind of phobia is to acknowledge that you have one.

“You can’t change what you don’t acknowledge,” advises Weekers. “You have to become aware that your phobia is an irrational response to a quite natural situation before you can start to overcome it.”

Identify your triggers

If you’re uncertain where to start, try asking yourself where your reaction is coming from. What thoughts are you having?

“Pay attention to what heightens your anxiety,” suggests Sturmer. “Maybe it’s when you look outside in the morning, maybe it’s when you plan an event, maybe it’s when you watch the news. How can you change your behaviour or manage these events to feel more in control? Think about setting boundaries around how often you can check websites or apps that predict the weather forecast.”

Try exposure therapy

“You can work on decreasing your symptoms by gradually exposing yourself to different weather conditions,” says Weekers. “First, start with easy weather and softer sounds (a gentle breeze, for example) and build this up as you go. Try not to engage in behaviours such as drinking or hiding under a huge blanket as you might usually do; instead, grab a cup of tea and just sit on the couch and focus on affirming, helpful thoughts and steady breathing.”

If you feel like this is something you can’t do on your own, try working with a mental health professional. Weekers recommends a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy and exposure therapy. And it’s always a good idea to speak to your GP about any kind of mental health issue.

Understand your fear

“See if you can unpick your fear,” says Sturmer. “Are you scared about being trapped somewhere in bad weather? Of slipping and falling? Of being stuck in the car? Of being lost and unable to see? There are so many reasons why you might feel a phobia about the weather, but if you start to understand what you’re frightened of, then it can help you to tackle the fear.”

Are the wind and rain freaking you out? You might have a weather phobia – here’s how to cope