Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Most of us have something we are afraid of. For some it may be the fear of heights. Others may fear insects, snakes or enclosed spaces. These are some of the more common fears and phobias, and it is estimated that about 19 million Americans have at least one phobia ranging from mild to severe.

When severe, phobias can impact the quality of our life and in severe cases are actually considered a mental illness. If you don’t like to fly, but it doesn’t keep you from traveling, it is a manageable issue. But what if your fear prevents you from living life to its fullest?

Here are some common fears and steps that may help you overcome them.

Fear of Flying/Heights

Although fear of flying is not exactly the same as fear of heights, there are some commonalities. About one in fifteen people experience a fear of flying known as acrophobia. Some suggest gradual exposure to increasing heights may ease the fear, others suggest relaxation and visualization techniques. Fear of flying can be eased by reading safety statistics on the activity, especially when compared to more common forms of travel like the automobile.

Fear of Enclosed Spaces

Most people who fear small spaces will probably tell you it is not exactly the tight space that causes the most angst, but the thought of becoming trapped in that space. An elevator may not create fear, for example, until it stops unexpectedly between floors with no knowledge of how long it may take to get out. Claustrophobia can be eased by reminding yourself the anxiety will pass, and by taking slow, calming breaths. The thought of panicking may create more anxiety, so think about something else you feel safer about, or about the things you need to do once the elevator door opens.

Fear of Spiders

Progressive exposure can help with arachnophobia, the fear of spiders. Exposure to a series of spider photographs, for example, may be a start. Then you can move to viewing a spider in a safe clear container. Eventually it may lead to holding the container. The vast majority of spiders are harmless and are far more afraid of us than we are of them, but that rationale isn’t always effective.

When fears or phobias are severe, they can sometimes be managed with an anti-anxiety drug. See your healthcare professionals.

Fears are a part of life, and sometimes we just need to rely on common sense and rationale to make the best decisions. This can include the decision to acquire life insurance. If you have a young family, odds are you are at a point of the greatest need for life insurance, although it may not appear that way. Connect with one of our life insurance professionals to discuss where you are in life and how life insurance can provide an affordable way to enhance your peace of mind. We look forward to assisting you.