This is another big fear of mine, its bad because i cant let water go over my chest if i do i panick, i cant swim so i avoid deep water. I have tryed alot of thing to fix it like going a little deeper and a little deeper but always when it gets to my chest i panick. Even in the bath tub i have to be careful how the water goes over my head when i wash my hair if it feels like i cant breath i panick. I was thinking maybe if i took swimming lessons i wouldnt be as scared but i dont know........maybe i would just embarasse myself by panicking what do you guys think??
Tanya

Honestly, I'm not a big fan of facing your fears. I think for some people it works and for some it causes more mental trauma.
So, my suggestion is to talk to a doctor. I also stated this in another of your posts, but I think it's the best option. Then you can ask them if you should try swimming lessons.
They can help you through things like this. Sometimes all they do is listen, but it's good to get these things out and hear that someone understands.
Be careful though, if you panic in the water. Do you have panic attacks or do you just 'panic'? I'd make sure there's someone in the water with you, as you may panic and go under.

Hi there,

I think I might have the same problem as you althought I havn't thought of it as a phobia. Perhaps because I'm rarely affected by it? (due to me swimming rarely heh)

For me, as long as my head goes near the surface of the water, (picture your head being inches above a water tank), I will get breatheless and unable to breathe (like as though I'm actually being under the water itself). I tried varying the distance between me and my head before and it happens only when I'm like really close to the surface.

Sometimes during showers, when I drench my head with the shower head face first, I have the same feeling. Its like not being able to breathe and when I try, the whole nose or nasal passage etc constricts. Trying to breathe becomes a very hard task, much like asthmatics trying to breathe properly during their attacks.

I don't know how to cure or remove it but I do know how to ease it. In swimming pools, have at least one full head's height above the water surface and you might find yourself breathing easier.

Angelistine

Hiya Angelistine and a festive welcome to Ofear

Im sure you will get some great advice for your fears and make some new friends here.

THanks!