Hi KYKaren82,
I had the exact same problem. I would tense up in tunnels, over bridges, overpasses and in parking garages. I used to avoid them too. Now, I can do all of the above without any problem at all. Review the coping skills, given here, and they will help you, eventually, get over these fears. I know it's not easy and it's hard work, but persistence will pay off in the end. For me, box breathing helped. Don't tense up, just practice the breathing exercises while you're going through these situations. Also, positive self talk, "I've done these things before without incident, so why would it be any different now?", "I am fine, nothing bad is going to happen (and believe it)." Just replace negative thoughts with positive ones, no matter how long it takes to overcome it. I know it sounds over simplified. But, it truly works, it did for me. I know it's not fun, but it's something you can overcome. You just have to retrain your brain to look at the situations differently, like they are do-able, not dangerous. If you begin this program, from start to finish, you will improve, I guarantee it. It's a process. Understanding that these fears had a place for surviving in prehistoric times (you wouldn't want to fall off a cliff, etc. - survival of the fittest), but now these fears have no place in our modern times. Bridges and tunnels are perfectly safe, they are inspected and are not life threatening. It's about changing your perception. A bridge is just a bridge (it's benign), how you look at it is the key to how you experience it. Some people look at it and say, "Wow! What a view!" Others say, "Oh no! I don't want to fall off!." It's changing your thoughts from the second statement (negative) to the first (positive). Working your way up, slowly, to not avoiding these situations is key. Following the whole program, from beginning to end, will lead you through this every step of the way. And, you have 100% support from this group. And, going in order, as you learn, will make it possible. I am rooting for you and I know you can do it. Take your time and work through this, at your own pace, and you will be successful. I have confidence in you.
Your friend, Shari
