How do I get over my fear?

Question

Long story short: When I was about 8 I got pulled out by a rip tide in Florida, I don't even remember how far out I got, I just remember that I couldn't see the people on the beach anymore. For those of you who don't know about rip tides it's wear the water basically drags you out, no matter how hard you swim against it; It sort of felt like I was trying to swim away while someone was dragging me out to sea by my legs. The only way I managed to get out of it was because they had posted an article in the newspaper earlier that day about how to survive a rip tide, swim parallel to the water yada yada. I don't know how long I was out there for, 20 minutes maybe? My grandfather was SUPPOSED to be watching me, but he fell asleep on the beach. I had swallowed a lot of water and my throat hurt for days...

Well, anyways, I CAN go in the water now, but my feet have to be touching. I have swum out to buoys with parents or friends, but the whole time my heart is being very face and I basically start having a mini panic attack. 

I'm not scared of anything IN the water (I've learned a lot about marine animals and they don't frighten me) just of the water itself.

Anyone have any suggestions as to how to get over my fear, I'm going to Cancun with my family in a couple of days and I really want to have a good time.


Sorry that wasn't very short x]]

P.S usually I can only feel safe swimming at my cape cod house.

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

How far do you want to go? if its to the point where the water gets past 6 feet always go out with another person you know swims good. thats rule number 1 anywhere when swimming in natural environments, that way you have some one to talk to then blame lol

thing that  you could do is learn how to sport rip currents (this is a confidence boost). Also understand that that as long as your not scared of marine life the water is really not a problem. Just let water take you out. and then swim parallel to shore line. and if boats are in the area just wave for help.  its very common hear in Miami. 

Hears a thought!!! Buy some Long Snorkeling Fins they are great form moving faster in the water. the longer the faster you go..

вιℓℓ! вιℓℓ иує тнє ѕ¢ιєи¢є gυу · Answer

make sure ur swimming with someone or theyre holding onto u or something

Stacie · Answer

Crap, I couldn't find it. But I remember if said to face it. Think good thoughts, ect.


BTW, I'm afraid of owls and I hate the owl units in school!!! 

Sorry just saying (;

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How do I get over my fear?

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