Claustrophobia is no joke and can have a significant impact on your mental health. Most claustrophobics are scared of small and confined spaces, such as a lift. Whether you experience a panic attack or mild anxiety, it is important to tackle the problem and overcome the fear. Here are a few useful tips for those afraid of going inside a lift.
Tips to Conquer the Fear
To conquer your fear, you must first gain a better comprehension of the situation. What is it about taking the lift that makes you so afraid? Lift phobias are most typically caused by a dread of how the lift makes you feel, rather than the lift itself. It's possible that you have claustrophobia if you don't like being in confined spaces. Make a list of everything an elevator ride comprises and rank each step according to how terrified it makes you feel; once you've done that, you'll have a starting point.
Rationalise the Fear
Consider the terrifying steps of taking a lift, and figure out why it scares you. Once you've established that, it is time to rationalise. When it comes to overcoming fear, many people find exposure to be helpful. Avoidance will simply serve to reinforce your concerns, but gradually confronting your phobia will become less frightening, and your thinking will shift.
Maintain Your Composure
Staying calm will keep you from feeling overwhelmed and allowing your thoughts to run wild. This, of course, is easier said than done. Consider the following suggestions:
Use the elevator with someone you trust who can assist you until you are confident enough to use it on your own:
- Standing tall and concentrating on your breathing
- If you don't want to be in a crowd, use the lift at a time when others use it the least
- Mindfulness and meditation should be a part of your daily routine
For persons with phobias, Cognitive Behavioural Treatment (CBT) is often highly successful. CBT is a type of talk therapy that focuses on your behaviour, feelings, and thoughts while also developing practical strategies for dealing with your fear.
Manage the Fear
If you're experiencing claustrophobia, there are a few simple things you may do to help yourself. However, dealing with these feelings and situations takes time, so it's always a good idea to get help.
Final Thoughts
Also, try taking lifts that are secure and of high quality. Examine various types of lifts to see whether ones are more intimidating than others and what makes the difference. Focus on slowly breathing in and out while visualising a relaxing scene. This will, at the least, reduce your anxiety. Determine which aspect of riding in an elevator gives you the most anxiety by following a step-by-step recipe. You can write out the steps, breaking them down as you go - from stepping to the door, opening the door, and pressing buttons.
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