Wei han zheng (Frigophobia): A Culture-Related Psychiatric Syndrome

Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe a clinical case of wei han zheng (frigophobia) in Singapore. Clinical picture: A 45–year-old Chinese housewife had morbid fears of cold, in terms of temperature, and food of a cold ( yin) nature, and a variety of somatic symptoms. She stopped working, adopted various measures to avoid exposure to cold air and wind, and took dietary precautions. Treatment and outcome: She received intermittent follow-ups over the following 8 years. An episodic, albeit recurrent, course was documented. Treatment consisted of symptomatic relief using low dose anxiolytics and antidepressants, and psycho logical interventions. Conclusion: Frigophobia is closely related to, and strongly influenced by, cultural beliefs. In therapy, it would be pertinent to consider the patient's own cultural beliefs about the illness as compared to the therapist's model of illness, and how matching of these could be negotiated.