Fear is a natural defense reaction of the body, mainly in the face of the unknown. Even in early childhood, people first know this state. But only after years, fear is perceived consciously, although it does not become more controllable due to this. Feeling afraid, uncomfortable, panic - all this is normal if it appears for a short period of time and does not bring much trouble. But sometimes fear interferes with living calmly and interacting with people. And then action should be taken.
There are many ways to deal with fear. Someone turns to specialists for help, and this is the best option if the fear can no longer be controlled and gradually turns into a phobia. But, fortunately, you can cope with lighter forms on your own.
Method 1. Into the whirlpool with the head
For many people, a kind of shock therapy is effective. If fear is not directly related to the risk to life, then you should try to plunge yourself into its very epicenter. For example, if a person is afraid to fly on airplanes, you should do it as often as possible, gradually accustoming yourself to the idea that nothing terrible will happen. Or if there is crowd fear, the best option would be to spend more time in large crowds. It can be very uncomfortable at first, up to panic attacks. In this case, it is necessary that there is someone nearby who will help, support in difficult times, and will not let fear overwhelm.
Method 2. Gradual overcoming
For those who are not yet ready for shock therapy or do not even imagine this treatment option is possible for themselves, there is a more gentle method. Its essence lies in the daily overcoming of at least some element of fear. The main thing is not to sit still, not to stay within the comfort zone. And over time, most likely, the fear will gradually fade away.
Method 3: Add a fun item
Fear is simply a mental reaction. It lends itself to control, change, transformation. If you mentally bring fear to an extreme, imagine an absolutely absurd situation, then the brain will automatically stop perceiving it as dangerous. There will be a desire to laugh at the amazing stupidity of what is happening. This is exactly what you need. Laughter in this case acts as a real medicine, a magic pill for fear.
Method 4. Presenting the worst case scenario
This method is not very pleasant, but most often effective. It is necessary in a calm home environment to relax, close your eyes, and then in paints imagine how something that causes terrible fear happens. For example, if a person is afraid to embarrass himself in front of people, to say something wrong, then you should see with your mind's eye how an unpleasant situation occurs. It is very important to colorfully present both the possible reaction of others and your own, to feel all the emotions, no matter how uncomfortable they may be. And then you need to take a couple of deep breaths and open your eyes. Usually, after such practice, one realizes that the fear is not as terrible and nightmarish as it seemed at first.
