Is there really any benefit in trying to overcome my aquaphobia?

Question

I long ago acknowledged I have aquaphobia (fear of water). It doesn't stop me from living a 'normal' life in that I can still take showers, go outside in the rain, have a drink of water, etc. I just refuse to go in to water, like the sea, a swimming pool or a bath. I keep a respectful distance from such bodies of water and am perfectly content with my aquaphobia. 

However, I have a couple of swimmer friends who keep on badgering me to get over my fear of water so that I can enjoy water-related activities with them. I've never had a desire to join in with water-related activites and I think their reason for wanting me to 'cure' my aquaphobia is selfish; this, I've told them. But their comments made me wonder: even though it's not interfering with the way I'm happy to live, is there a benefit in overcoming my fear?

. · Accepted Answer

I don't think so, apart from the fact that it'll make you feel good about yourself, and slightly empowered

Michelle · Answer

aquaphobia is the only phobia we are actually born with. we have a natural inbuilt fear of water. so in theory there is nothing wrong with your fear, everybody who goes swimming in the sea are the ones who are going against nature! don't get me wrong i can swim and have enjoyed it in the past and it's a good idea for children to learn in case of perhaps getting in to trouble in the water. i was also brought up in a village by the sea and have a great respect for the sea and the dangers it can bring. i have witnessed people getting into trouble while out swimming and you can't take it for keeping a respectful distance from it is sensible. don't let people force you into doing something you are not comfortable with. after all it's not affecting your daily life in anyway and come winter nobody will be swimming in the sea. everybody has things and fears they don't like doing, i have and i'm sure your friends do too. hope this helps. x

Braggo · Answer

yes you should try to get over it becuase there are lots of fun activies to do in water...diving, swimming, scuba-diving, all these are really fun things to do in water.

i think a good way to get over this fear of water is to to it little then move to big. First just go in a paddling pool or something of that size then move into your local swimming pool. then try to go to the beach as you will have lots of fun.
give it a shot=)

Anonymous · Answer

I have the same fear but feel that my young son is missing out, I would love to take him swimming but have to rely on others to do this with him. 

if you have no desire for swimming activities then that's your choice as its hardly affecting your quality of life

roosted · Answer

Hell yes, you may not be so scared to dive into a huge vat of beer!

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Is there really any benefit in trying to overcome my aquaphobia?

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