Scared of 13? You're not alone, the truth about triskaidekaphobia
Have you ever noticed that many hotels don't have a 13th floor, or that some people avoid making big plans on the 13th of a month? This isn't a coincidence. It is due to a fear that people can have, which is very widespread, called triskaidekaphobia. This rather odd phobia is an extreme or irrational fear of the number 13.Some people treat this as just a superstition. For others, it may cause real anxiety or even panic attacks. The fear of 13 is so widespread that it has affected architecture, travel, and some of the most famous habits of people around the world.advertisementWHAT IS TRISKAIDEKAPHOBIA?Triskaidekaphobia means the fear of the number 13. Many people believe this number brings bad luck. This is why there is no 13th floor in some buildings. They start counting at the first floor, go to the second, and then skip to the 14th. You may not even find house number 13, or a seat number 13, on buses or planes in some places.
This fear is not always rational. But for some people, simply seeing the number 13 can induce anxiety, nervousness or discomfort.
Scared of 13? You're not alone, the truth about triskaidekaphobia
SYMPTOMS OF TRISKAIDEKAPHOBIATriskaidekaphobia, or the fear of the number 13, may not always be considered a medical phobia, but it can produce large and powerful emotional and physical reactions in certain individuals.advertisementThe most common symptoms include:Avoidance of the number 13 at all costsFeelings of anxiety or panic when one sees the numberDifficulty concentrating on work, school, or social situationsIn more serious cases, a person experiences sadness, panic, or anxiety attacks, including symptoms of:Chest tightness and/or rapid heartbeatDizziness or lightheadednessPerspiration, shaking, and/or dry mouthNausea, confusion, or shortness of breathFAMOUS PEOPLE WHO FEAR THE NUMBER 13According to Wikipedia, notable people reported to have triskaidekaphobia the fear of the number 13 include:Arnold Schoenberg (composer)Franklin D. Roosevelt (former U.S. President)Sholom Aleichem (writer)Stephen King (author)Nick Yarris (author and speaker)ngel Nieto (motorcycle racer)Herbert Hoover (former U.S. President)Mark Twain (author), though his fear may have been more anecdotal or humorousNapoleon Bonaparte (French military leader)Stephen King is notably open about his intense fear of the number 13, avoiding page numbers or chapters involving 13 in his writing.These individuals have shown varying degrees of fear or superstition related to the number 13, ranging from mild avoidance to more severe reactions.WHY THE NUMBER 13 IS FEARED IN THE WESTERN CULTURE AND IT'S NOT THE ONLY ONEThe number 13 has been considered unlucky in many places around the world, especially in Western cultures. While we don't know the exact reason, one possibility comes from the Bible, where 13 were gathered at Jesus' last supper, the night before he was crucified.Eventually, 13 gained a "bad luck" reputation, and when word got around, it became ingrained in our consciousness as something suspicious or even ominous. This superstition has spread to the point that many airlines go so far as to skip row 13, hotels choose not to have a 13th floor, and some cities even omit 13th Street from their layout. After the infamous Apollo 13 incident, space agencies became so frightened of the number that they stopped using it altogether.The belief in and even fear of the number 13 is not always a phobia. A true phobia, a condition like triskaidekaphobia, is an anxiety disorder that can be diagnosed. But most people who avoid or fear the number 13 do so either through superstition or belief, and certainly not with the same intensity as someone with a serious phobia.advertisementNotably, not all reluctance towards the number 13 is indicative of a phobia. A true phobia, like triskaidekaphobia, is a very real and diagnosable anxiety disorder. Most people merely have superstitions or avoid it out of habit or belief, not real fear.It's not just the number 13 that people avoid. In some Asian cultures, the number 4 is avoided because it is pronounced similar to the word for "death" in several local languages. A 2001 study even discovered that heart-related deaths in Chinese and Japanese Americans increased on the 4th day of the month. Researchers proposed that cultural stress associated with the number four may or does contribute to these patterns.Disclaimer:This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Triskaidekaphobia and other phobias should be evaluated and treated by qualified mental health professionals if they significantly impact a person's life.Trending Reel
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India Today
a day ago
- India Today
Scared of 13? You're not alone, the truth about triskaidekaphobia
Have you ever noticed that many hotels don't have a 13th floor, or that some people avoid making big plans on the 13th of a month? This isn't a coincidence. It is due to a fear that people can have, which is very widespread, called triskaidekaphobia. This rather odd phobia is an extreme or irrational fear of the number people treat this as just a superstition. For others, it may cause real anxiety or even panic attacks. The fear of 13 is so widespread that it has affected architecture, travel, and some of the most famous habits of people around the IS TRISKAIDEKAPHOBIA?Triskaidekaphobia means the fear of the number 13. Many people believe this number brings bad luck. This is why there is no 13th floor in some buildings. They start counting at the first floor, go to the second, and then skip to the 14th. You may not even find house number 13, or a seat number 13, on buses or planes in some places. This fear is not always rational. But for some people, simply seeing the number 13 can induce anxiety, nervousness or discomfort. Scared of 13? You're not alone, the truth about triskaidekaphobia SYMPTOMS OF TRISKAIDEKAPHOBIATriskaidekaphobia, or the fear of the number 13, may not always be considered a medical phobia, but it can produce large and powerful emotional and physical reactions in certain most common symptoms include:Avoidance of the number 13 at all costsFeelings of anxiety or panic when one sees the numberDifficulty concentrating on work, school, or social situationsIn more serious cases, a person experiences sadness, panic, or anxiety attacks, including symptoms of:Chest tightness and/or rapid heartbeatDizziness or lightheadednessPerspiration, shaking, and/or dry mouthNausea, confusion, or shortness of breathFAMOUS PEOPLE WHO FEAR THE NUMBER 13According to Wikipedia, notable people reported to have triskaidekaphobia the fear of the number 13 include:Arnold Schoenberg (composer)Franklin D. Roosevelt (former U.S. President)Sholom Aleichem (writer)Stephen King (author)Nick Yarris (author and speaker)ngel Nieto (motorcycle racer)Herbert Hoover (former U.S. President)Mark Twain (author), though his fear may have been more anecdotal or humorousNapoleon Bonaparte (French military leader)Stephen King is notably open about his intense fear of the number 13, avoiding page numbers or chapters involving 13 in his individuals have shown varying degrees of fear or superstition related to the number 13, ranging from mild avoidance to more severe THE NUMBER 13 IS FEARED IN THE WESTERN CULTURE AND IT'S NOT THE ONLY ONEThe number 13 has been considered unlucky in many places around the world, especially in Western cultures. While we don't know the exact reason, one possibility comes from the Bible, where 13 were gathered at Jesus' last supper, the night before he was 13 gained a "bad luck" reputation, and when word got around, it became ingrained in our consciousness as something suspicious or even ominous. This superstition has spread to the point that many airlines go so far as to skip row 13, hotels choose not to have a 13th floor, and some cities even omit 13th Street from their layout. After the infamous Apollo 13 incident, space agencies became so frightened of the number that they stopped using it belief in and even fear of the number 13 is not always a phobia. A true phobia, a condition like triskaidekaphobia, is an anxiety disorder that can be diagnosed. But most people who avoid or fear the number 13 do so either through superstition or belief, and certainly not with the same intensity as someone with a serious not all reluctance towards the number 13 is indicative of a phobia. A true phobia, like triskaidekaphobia, is a very real and diagnosable anxiety disorder. Most people merely have superstitions or avoid it out of habit or belief, not real not just the number 13 that people avoid. In some Asian cultures, the number 4 is avoided because it is pronounced similar to the word for "death" in several local languages. A 2001 study even discovered that heart-related deaths in Chinese and Japanese Americans increased on the 4th day of the month. Researchers proposed that cultural stress associated with the number four may or does contribute to these article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Triskaidekaphobia and other phobias should be evaluated and treated by qualified mental health professionals if they significantly impact a person's Reel
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
6 fruits that are safe for animals but harmful for humans
Nature is the most beautiful gift to us which is full of surprises especially when it comes to food. While some fruits may seem harmless or even appealing, they can be dangerous for humans but perfectly safe for certain animals. God has created every living organism differently and this is the main reason that makes the digestion, metabolism and eating habits of every living organism different from each other. Well, there are many fruits that can be consumed by animals but can be proved toxic for humans. But what makes these fruits to get easily consumed by animals and not humans is truly interesting to discover. Let's take a quick look at these food treats that can be proved dangerous for humans. 6 animal treats that are toxic for humans Manchineel Manchineel is famous by its name as "death apple" because it generates a small green fruit which may look appealing to the eyes but is very dangerous for human consumption. Even touching them or standing under these trees can cause severe burns and even blindness. It is true that these ingestions can be proved fatal for humans as well. But despite these factors, certain animals, reptiles and land crabs can eat this fruit without any side effects or harm because of their ability to tolerate these toxins which is the quality that humans lack. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo Thus we can say that Manchineel is a perfect example that what is safe for eating habits in animals can be safe for human consumption too. Source: Wikipedia Yew berries Yew berries grow on a beautiful yet deadly plant named yew tree which is found in many parts of the world. While the fleshy red arils which are the berry-like part are technically non-toxic, the seed inside is highly poisonous to humans and can lead to rapid heart failure if chewed or swallowed. Surprisingly, many birds such as thrushes and waxwings can safely eat yew berries. They digest the fleshy part and pass the toxic seeds whole by being unharmed. However, for humans, yew is one of nature's deadliest plants which proves that a snack for wildlife can be a silent killer for us. Source: Wikipedia Strychnine fruit Strychnine fruit is incredibly toxic to humans but can be consumed by some animals without harm. They are found in parts of Asia and Australia and this small orange fruit contains strychnine and brucine that are potent alkaloids which affect the nervous system. In humans, even a small amount can cause muscle spasms, seizures and potentially death. However, certain birds and animals appear to tolerate the fruit likely due to differences in metabolism or selective feeding habits. While it may be part of their natural diet for humans, this fruit is strictly off-limits and highly dangerous. Source: Wikipedia European spindle berries European spindle berries come from the European spindle tree which is a striking shrub with bright pink fruits that are toxic to humans. These berries contain harmful compounds that can cause severe stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea and even seizures if ingested. Despite their toxicity, various birds and small mammals eat the berries without harm by playing a key role in spreading the seeds. This contrast highlights how some animals have adapted to safely enjoy fruits that can be dangerous or even deadly to humans. European spindle berries serve as a vivid reminder that nature's treats do not always translate safely across species. Source: Wikipedia Buckthorn berries Buckthorn berries grow on shrubs and small trees that are found in many regions and are known for their glossy black or dark purple appearance. These berries are a valuable food source for various birds and wildlife but they are toxic to humans. Consuming buckthorn berries can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. The berries contain compounds that irritate the digestive system by making them unsafe for people to eat. Animals have developed a tolerance for these berries but for humans, buckthorn berries are a harmful reminder that not all wild fruits are safe to consume. Source: Wikipedia Holly berries Holly berries are bright red and often seen for decorating homes during the holiday season but they're highly toxic to humans if ingested. The berries contain compounds that can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain. While these berries can be dangerous to people, many birds safely eat holly berries that help them to spread the seeds throughout winter when other food is scarce. This difference in tolerance shows how some wildlife can enjoy fruits that pose serious health risks to humans. Holly berries are a striking example of nature's treats that are not meant for humans. Source: Wikipedia Also read: 15 human foods that are safe for dogs and 6 that can be dangerous them
Fashion Value Chain
2 days ago
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Mars x Calm Survey Reveals How Pets Are Quietly Powering a Mental Health Paradigm Shift in India
Mars, a global pet care, snacking, and food company with a 100+ year legacy, has partnered with Calm, a leading mental health company, to unveil the largest-ever global survey underscoring the powerful potential of human-animal interaction to enhance wellbeing. Conducted by YouGov, the research* spans 30,000+ pet parents across 20 countries – including in India. Key India & Global Findings: A Powerful Case for Paws and Presence Mental Health Boost: 79% of Indian pet owners say their pet positively impacts their mental wellbeing. Most Preferred companions in times of stress: 57% prefer spending time with their pet when stressed – more than with their partner (37%), family (44%), or friends (38%). Work-Life Reset: 93% say their pet prompts them to take a break from work or chores, with 55% saying this happens daily. Digital Detox: 92% report their pet helps them unplug from screens, while 74% say they spend less time on social media because of their pet. Sleep Support: 79% say their pet improves their sleep – a powerful reminder of the comfort and calm pets bring. Combating Anxiety: 88% Indians say pets help reduce anxiety or overthinking, offering presence without pressure. Social Connectors: 69% pet parents in India say their pet has improved their social life. While the mental health benefits of having pets have been acknowledged before, this global survey offers a deep dive into the many ways pets are helping pet parents – in India and worldwide – cope more effectively with anxiety, work-life stress, disrupted sleep patterns, social media fatigue, and overall emotional wellbeing. What is remarkable is not just the consistency of these findings across markets like the US, UK, Australia, and Germany – but how strongly India stands out. Indian pet parents ranked among the highest globally when it came to screen-time reduction (92% vs. global ~74%), taking regular breaks from work (93% vs 77% global), feeling more relaxed by talking to their pet (82% vs 77% global), and improved sleep quality (79% vs. 55% in the US and 43% in the UK). Furthermore, 88% of Indian pet owners say their pets help reduce overthinking – significantly higher than most Western markets – while 76% Indian pet parents report they feel more present and mindful because of their pets. These standout numbers underscore the unique depth of the human-animal bond in India and its powerful role in enhancing daily wellbeing. Salil Murthy, Managing Director, Mars Petcare India, said, 'This survey arrives at a defining moment. India, as the rest of the world, is navigating the twin challenges of digital burnout and a growing mental health burden – and what we have found is both moving and urgent. 82% of pet parents surveyed globally say talking to their pet helps them feel more relaxed. 81% pet parents globally feel calmer when their pet settles beside them – a moment of shared peace. 76% of those surveyed say their pet encourages them to stop overthinking while 75% are more likely to go outdoors, and 74% spend less time on social media due to their pet's influence. These are not just statistics – they reflect a transformative, under-recognized role pets play in our lives.' Salil added, 'At Mars Petcare India, we believe in our purpose: A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS which also means creating stronger, more compassionate communities. Through our work in driving adoptions, raising awareness about pet homelessness, we're helping shape a more pet-inclusive India. This commitment begins in our own workplace. Our Hyderabad office is designed to welcome pets – and our in-house pet associates, Maya and Milo, are an integral part of our Mars Petcare family. They receive care, nutritious food, and affection from our associates and their families. Their presence brings a unique sense of warmth, happiness, connection, and wellbeing to the workplace – a reflection of the culture we are proud to foster at Mars. As a business deeply rooted in science-backed pet care and purpose-led growth, Mars wants more and more people to adopt and welcome pets in their homes and partner with communities, policymakers, and shelters to build more pet-inclusive environments.' The survey marks the launch of a first-of-its-kind partnership between Mars and Calm which aims to explore and celebrate the deep connection between people and pets as a force for everyday wellbeing. Turning insight into action, Mars and Calm have teamed up to create new content to help support wellbeing while nurturing the bond with your pet. The Mars x Calm content collection is a series of pet-inspired content to help you relax, reflect and recharge. This is Calm's first collection created just for pet lovers and inspired by the mutual relationship between people and their pets. Greg Justice, Chief Content Officer, Calm said, 'Yet another reason to love our pets: the data shows they have a profound impact on mental health. That's why we're proud to partner with Mars, the global leader in pet care, to celebrate how pets enhance wellbeing for millions worldwide and to highlight diverse approaches to mental health support. Together, we are helping more people – and their pets – experience the proven benefits of the human-animal bond through real stories, science-backed tools, and supportive content.' The survey marks the beginning of a long-term global collaboration between Mars and Calm. The new Mars x Calm content collection – now available on the Calm app – includes guided meditations, sleep stories, and mindfulness tools inspired by the human-animal bond. By combining Mars' deep commitment to pet care with Calm's leadership in mental wellness, the initiative encourages a shift in how society views pets: not just as part of the family, but as part of our mental wellness toolkit. The research was conducted by YouGov Plc on behalf of Mars. Total sample size was 31299 adults across 20 markets (UK: 2507, Brazil: 2502; Canada: 1347; Germany: 1584; Indonesia: 2510; India: 1001; Mexico: 1567; Malaysia: 1036; Poland: 1349; US: 3748; China: 1054: Belgium: 1084; Australia: 1525; New Zealand: 1066; Spain: 1322; Netherlands: 1074; France: 1526; Denmark: 1093; Sweden: 1070; Italy: 1334). Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th February – 31st March 2025. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted at an individual country level to be representative of all dog and cat owners (aged 18+) in the respective markets.
