Managing Fear

[ARY]

I dive solo most of the time. In such event I have a jolt of something either adrenaline or endorphins not sure. It is different from enjoying a beer but nevertheless it is. It wakes up, eliminates any soreness, gives energy and flexibility in old joints. So yes.

[Scubaru]

I'm claustrophobic but even more so agoraphobic (a big reason I prefer diving caves over ocean). Cavediving requires me to face both of those "fears". I'm not to the point of true sidemount diving due to my Intro certification, but I understand when someone says they embrace the fear. It's personally satisfying to become more and more comfortable in these spaces. Like anything else, with enough training and experience, you can overcome almost anything you set your mind to. Fear is 100% psychological. When we "Stop. Breathe. Think. Act.", we're reassuring ourselves that we are physically capable of doing something that we're currently mentally struggling to do. At least, that's how I feel about it. I'm also dehydrated from mowing the yard and currently 2 beers in.

[JohnAd]

Last year I was on a boat heading out the intracoastal waterway and two very experienced divers, obviously long time buddies, were sitting next to me, and they started talking about this very topic. One of them said, "I have to admit that I get a little afraid every time I prepare to get in the water."

His friend said,"I get afraid every time I see you prepare to get in the water, too."