Draftophobia, often described as the fear of drafts or air currents, is a psychological condition where individuals experience significant anxiety or distress when exposed to moving air. While the term is not formally listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), it is recognized by mental health professionals as a specific phobia, similar to other environmental fears like agoraphobia or anemophobia (the fear of wind).

Individuals suffering from this condition often report physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, or a feeling of suffocation when they perceive a draft, even if the air movement is minimal. The fear is often rooted in a belief that drafts cause illness, such as colds or muscle stiffness, a belief that varies significantly across different cultures. For instance, in many European and Asian cultures, the concept of 'catching a cold' from a draft is deeply ingrained, whereas in other regions, it is viewed as a folk superstition rather than a medical reality.

Because the condition is relatively rare and often overlaps with other anxiety disorders, there is limited clinical data on its prevalence. Treatment typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on challenging the irrational beliefs surrounding the dangers of air currents and gradually exposing the patient to controlled environments. While some sources treat the phenomenon as a minor curiosity, others emphasize the genuine distress it causes for those who feel compelled to avoid windows, fans, or air conditioning units entirely. There is currently no consensus on whether this should be treated as a standalone disorder or a symptom of a broader sensory processing sensitivity.