[madscientist1129]

I've suffered from anxiety and depression for about 5 years now (I'm almost 24 years old) and I've always felt I have "normal" phobias (spiders, heights, etc.). But recently, I've found that I'm frightened of a lot of things that I previously wasn't. For example, I intended to use the whirlpool at my gym last week and got to the pool and realized I was too scared to go in for some reason. I have never been scared of this before, and I have used whirlpools many times! Anyone have experiences with new found phobias that you can't explain?

[Fuzzybear]

[francisR]

Hi Madscientist

Perhaps taking a rational attitude to the phobia would be helpful. Asking yourself what would be the worst that could happen by getting into the whirlpool. And then realizing that you have done this on many previous occasions with no problem should bring reassurance. And we can make ourselves do the right thing despite strong feelings. There is also something called rehearsal which means imagining yourself over and over again getting into the whirlpool with the greatest of ease so that when you do get into it. Doing so immediately without fear would be a knee-jerk reaction. I hope and pray you gain control over all of these phobias. Take care. Have a really great day. God bless and best wishes from your friend Francis