How do you get rid of your Phobias?!

Depending on the severity of a phobia, it can be very difficult to deal with. It is all about facing your fear and not letting it control you.

I suffer from Enochlophobia, the fear of crowds. When I am in a crowded area, I start to break out in a cold sweat and my heart starts racing. Depending on how badly the attack hits me, I have to go find a quieter area near a wall or else get out of the area completely. This makes it very difficult to go to sporting events, concerts, and even malls around Christmas or Thanksgiving.

I've learned to take small steps toward helping to fight the fear. I can now stand on a crowded street corner, or wait in line at a movie theater premiere, and as long as I distract myself by having someone to talk to or something else to focus on, like reading a pamphlet or looking at signs around me, I find it is not so bad.

For you, perhaps I can suggest a couple of things to help you:

To fight the fear of loud noises, record a CD (or mp3) of various loud sounds that make you nervous. Car horns, someone yelling, whatever. Then play that throughout the day when you can, but start it off at a really low volume on the stereo or mp3 player. Gradually as you get used to it, increase the volume, until you have it as loud as you would expect to hear it in real life. That will help you get accustomed to the noises.

Of course, if you don't use head phones or ear buds, your neighbors may start complaining, and that will solve your fear of not being alone! (kidding)

For that second fear, all you can do is spend some time by yourself. Maybe you start with 5 minutes in a place where you cannot see or hear anyone else, and gradually work yourself up to an hour or more. Your graduation would be to go to a state park and find a place where there are no other people around for the entire day, just reading a good book. Or perhaps try to relax and go out in a boat by yourself on a large lake and try fishing alone for several hours.

And if you cannot control these fears on your own, don't be afarid to ask for help from a professional. I am not a big believer in medication as treatment for this type of disorder, but they may have some additional suggestions that would help you.

Face your fear, with a sense of logic. I am terrified of roller-coasters but once I have been on them I see it more rationally and enjoy it. Learn to accept the situation you fear. No one likes being alone but you can do things to occupy your time and find it more enjoyable. ie having a chill in the bath.

Face You Fears! Stop worrying. Ask your self what is good about what you fear? Ask urself why u fear what you fear? Really put some thoughts into it.. And do not think of it in terms of "I do not want to be afraid anymore.". Think of this change as "I want to be free", or "I want to feel secure." These fears are only a reflection of your inner beliefs. I recommend you read this book "Awaken the Giant Within" by Anthony Robbins. It will help you alot.

If you cannot overcome them on your own, Sammy, then you might want to talk to a professional. If you are still in school, your guidance counselor may be able to provide you with a referral to the right kind of person; you can also see your doctor for a referral. Peace.

feel the fear and do it anyway... face the fears head on
what doesn't kill you makes you stronger

embrace them daily