Escape rooms are thrilling, sometimes exciting and occasionally a bit claustrophobic. But what if you suffer from claustrophobia? Do you then have to miss out on the escape room experience? The answer is a clear: no!

Many people automatically associate escape rooms with small, dark rooms and locked doors. In fact, however, there are major differences between individual escape rooms. Some rooms are spacious, while others consist of several interconnected areas. And above all, nobody is locked in an escape room against their will.

What does claustrophobia actually mean?

Colloquially, „Platzangst“ is mostly used to mean the fear of cramped or enclosed spaces. Technically, a distinction is often made between claustrophobia and agoraphobia. For an escape room, the fear of cramped, enclosed spaces is primarily relevant.

Just the thought of seeing a door close behind them can trigger an uneasy feeling in some people. A racing heart, restlessness or the feeling of needing to get back outside quickly can be possible reactions.

However, that does not automatically mean that an escape room is unsuitable.

Escape room despite claustrophobia – is it possible?

In many cases, yes. The deciding factor is how severe the fear is and which escape room you choose.

If you are unsure, you should ask when booking how big the rooms are and whether there might be any particularly narrow or dark areas. A good provider can explain what to expect without unnecessarily giving anything away.

Furthermore, an escape room does not necessarily have to consist of small rooms. Many venues feature large playing areas, multiple rooms or even entire sections of buildings that belong to the game area.

But the story makes a big difference too. Crime rooms like the Escape Room The Apartment in Castrop-Rauxel or Family escape rooms like Tristan's (T)Raum are ideally suited for people with anxieties.

Nobody has to endure fear

The most important point: you don't have to cross your personal boundary.

An escape room is supposed to be fun. If you realise during the game that the situation is becoming too much for you, you should let the game master know. Before starting, you can also find out precisely how communication with the game master works and how you can leave the game in an emergency.

That already takes away some of the tension for many people: you aren't actually trapped.

The game master is here for you

During the game, there is usually a games master in the background who can follow the action. This means someone is available at any time if you need help or feel uncomfortable.

Especially if you are visiting an escape room for the first time and are worried about your claustrophobia, a brief chat before the game is well worth it. Just be open about the fact that you do not feel particularly comfortable in confined spaces. This will help the team to better assess which room might be suitable for you.

Tip: Start with a suitable escape room

If you are claustrophobic, you shouldn't necessarily start with the smallest, darkest and scariest escape room.

Better suited is a room with:

• generous play areas
• several interconnected rooms
• good lighting
• few narrow passageways
• as few situations as possible where one has to spend a longer period of time in a confined space

That way you can find out first how you feel in an escape room. Escape rooms are also particularly well suited in which Children's birthdays take place. Here you can be sure that they are suitable.

And what if the fear comes during the game?

Even then, the rule is: stay calm and let the game master know.

You don't need to feel ashamed. Claustrophobia is nothing to make excuses for. If it gets too much for you, you can ask for a break or help at any time. After all, the actual goal of an escape room isn't to keep someone in an uncomfortable state for as long as possible, but to experience an exciting adventure together.

Claustrophobia and escape rooms are not mutually exclusive

Claustrophobia doesn't automatically mean that escape rooms are off-limits for you. With the right selection and an open conversation with the provider, you may well be able to take part without any problems.

However, in the event of severe discomfort or intense anxiety, you shouldn't simply try to force your way through an extreme situation. Inform yourself about the room beforehand and decide for yourself what you feel comfortable with.

For an escape room should above all be one thing: an exciting experience to be shared with friends, Family or Colleagues can be enjoyed – and not a test of how long one can endure one's own limits.