[aziza_akos]

Ok. I don't want to start a political debate I am just terrified of guns.
I was with my friend this morning and she was listening to a pro gun show on the radio I asked her to change it but she wouldn't since it was her house and I wanted to tough it out if possible I stayed. They were talking about concealed weapons and it made me almost sick to think of everyone carrying a gun. I am afraid of police because they carry guns i'm afraid I will do something wrong and get shot or my service dog will get shot. As a result my weird behavior has gotten me in trouble because they think I have or am doing something wrong. I cant look them in the eyes I shake and am jumpy. I am absolutely freaking out not knowing who is and who isn't carrying a gun. I am afraid enough I will not leave my house. The idea a person has so much power over me really frightens me and that they could abuse that power. I don't know what to do I feel like I am going to have a panic attack

[Travelinglady]

I think more people should at least have a healthy respect for guns.

Have you talked to a therapist about this issue? I think that might be a good idea, since your fear is so strong.

[DogTrainingLove]

I understand your fear, I have the same thing, infact I also have a Service Dog too. It might help to give you peace of mind to write to your local police department and include a letter from you psychiatrist and therapist saying you have a mental condition that may cause you to act different than other people. Not only could it help them to understand you, but mainly it might give you some peace of mind.

I also keep a copy of my letter in my dog's vest, just in case I want to show it to and officer.

[BlessedRhiannon]

I do understand your fear, and I'm not in any way trying to minimize it. I just wanted to put these thoughts out there...

For those people that carry concealed weapons legally, whether they be citizens with a concealed carry permit, or law enforcement, they are very aware of the ramifications of firing that gun. Most people that carry concealed will never actually use that gun against another person. Heck, most law enforcement officers have never fired their gun in the course of their duties. Just because someone is carrying a gun does not mean that they have no regard for human (or canine) life.

I'm wondering if exposure to guns might help you to overcome your fear of them and the people that carry them. Would you ever consider enrolling in a shooting class at a local shooting range? Do you have a friend that target shoots that might be willing to go with you? Maybe seeing people being responsible and non-threatening with guns would help. just a thought.

[aziza_akos]

I think getting a letter from the doctor is a really good idea. thanks. I am in therapy and the therapist knows I'm deeply troubled by guns.
I have been shot at before just for using a staple gun to fix a chicken pen. Then I had someone on meth pull a gun on me just because I was walking my dogs. Then I hear horrible stories so this just adds to my fears. I really don't feel Im ready to be exposed to guns Im afraid it will not be something I can handle.
Im sure most are responsible with guns but I also know it only takes one time with the wrong person and that's what im afraid of

[Grey Matter]

Wow aziza, that is terrifying. I am so sorry you've been through things like this. Have you considered that you may have PTSD? Those can lead to obsessive fears. And with what you've gone through, who can blame your mind?

I don't think anyone should feel the need to have respect for violent weapons, especially if they have had them used against them before. I mean; would you have respect for an abusive person in your life if you've once been abused? Of course not. I do think talking to your therapist more within this subject will help you a lot. You can sort out how to react to situations that make you anxious.

I hope you start feeling better soon. I can't imagine how hard that is.

[aziza_akos]

I do have PTSD. Was finally diagnosed over Christmas. Guns, yelling, and men are my biggest triggers. I have horrible flashbacks and nightmares.

[Grey Matter]

I am so sorry to hear that. I have PTSD as well, but it wasn't from violence; so while I can say I have flashbacks, I have no idea how it is to be triggered by violence. That must be so hard.

[Angst_guy7]

I was a very avid target shooter awhile back so I know a thing or two about handguns. During the time I was actively involved in the sport I met a variety of gun owners. While there are indeed some weird scary people who own guns the majority are not. I would also say unequivocally that non gun owners don't really get the variety of reasons why people love their guns. For many it is such a rich tradition that they don't understand why anyone would want to restrict the ownership of them.
Also many gun owners are very enthusiastic about explaining firearms to people who are new to the culture. ( I didn't start shooting until I was 43 and people were very eager to show me all aspects of gun safety etc.)
You may want to talk to your therapist about gradually exposing yourself to some elements of gun handling. You could work your way up to eventually handling one in a store for instance. I can almost guarantee you that if it was explained to the person showing you the gun that you had a fear of them they would go out of their way to make you feel comfortable. Responsible gun owners really enjoy taking the fear and mystery out of guns. If politics come up during any of this just be prepared with a answer. They will respect your privacy if you say you would rather not discuss the political side of things.
Good luck and like anything involving overcoming a fear don't stress about doing it too quickly.

[aziza_akos]

I'm sorry you also PTSD I wouldn't wish it on anyone...

I guess I don't understand how I can be around guns if I cant even listen to a radio show about them I just don't see it happening. Maybe in time and with therapy. I just know its debilitating right now.