Most, if not all, people hide in their comfort zone with few ever venturing outside that box. They feel safe and secure, but really they are not; it's only a deluded facade. You, at least, are aware of your fears. If you would do one small thing each day to face your fears, you would feel greatly empowered. What's the worst that can happen? You'll die? Well, what's happening inside you now?

Just a suggestion, how about starting with your mother; she needs it.