Hi Anu. I have a fear of snakes however can see them from a distance. There are lots of snakes in my native place and have heard true stories about death of people/ injuries due to snake bites which makes me not to visit my native place. I have seen videos of my friends who have touched snakes and even held snakes around their necks (although with support from the snake park/zoo team) and it makes me feel that they are very brave and I am not. Can you assist me in overcoming this fear?

Ans: Dear Vikram,
Has this fear something new or has it been from a young age?

Whichever it is, the incident is being replayed over and over again when she sees a lizard. It means that, that incident has to ease in the mind for a better reaction/response when she sees a lizard.
The easiest way is to 'DULL' out that memory and make it vanish. It's a very effective way to train the mind to literally erase that memory without replacing it with anything.

It's a phobia and if you feel it requires an expert, seek one...for an expert who can deal with anxiety related to a phobia, it will be a matter of minutes to help your wife.

All the best!

Ans: Overcoming fear is a personal and gradual process, but here are some strategies that can help:

Identify and acknowledge your fears: The first step in overcoming fear is to identify what you're afraid of and acknowledge its presence in your life. Take the time to reflect on the specific fears that hold you back and recognize that they are valid emotions.

Understand the root cause: Try to understand the underlying reasons behind your fears. Sometimes fears stem from past experiences, trauma, or limiting beliefs. By gaining insight into the root causes, you can begin to address them more effectively.

Educate yourself: Knowledge is power. Often, fear arises from a lack of understanding or unfamiliarity. Educate yourself about the things you fear. Whether it's a specific phobia or a fear of the unknown, gathering information and learning more about the subject can help dispel irrational fears.

Take small steps: Overcoming fear doesn't mean completely eliminating it overnight. Start by taking small steps towards facing your fears. Break down the fear-inducing situations into smaller, more manageable tasks. Gradually exposing yourself to these situations can help build confidence and reduce fear over time.

Practice relaxation techniques: Fear can trigger physical and emotional responses, such as increased heart rate, sweating, or anxiety. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or mindfulness, can help you manage these symptoms and calm your mind.

Seek support: Don't hesitate to reach out for support. Share your fears with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist who can provide encouragement, guidance, and a fresh perspective. Connecting with others who have faced similar fears can also be beneficial.

Challenge negative thoughts: Fear often accompanies negative thoughts and self-doubt. Challenge these thoughts by examining their validity and replacing them with more positive and empowering ones. Affirmations and positive self-talk can help reframe your mindset and reduce fear.

Embrace failure as a learning opportunity: Fear of failure can hold you back from taking risks or pursuing your goals. Remember that failure is a natural part of life and often leads to growth and learning. Embrace failure as an opportunity to learn, adjust, and try again.

Celebrate your successes: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Each step you take in facing your fears and overcoming obstacles is progress worth recognizing. Celebrating your successes can boost your confidence and motivate you to continue moving forward.

Remember, overcoming fear takes time and patience. Be kind to yourself throughout the process, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if your fears are significantly impacting your daily life and well-being.

Ans: Hi!! Thank you for reaching out, the first step to overcoming your fear is already done! You asked for help…. kudos to you!! Pat yourself on the back for that.
Now the next step to overcoming fear is by befriending it…. how do you do that? By just doing it, no thinking, just doing, taking action…the example you have taken of the office event, let’s simplify that for you…
1 put everything on paper, break down the tasks into smaller doable chunks and do it
2. check if some of the tasks can be delegated, you need not do everything on your own
3. prepare well, visit the venue a day before, become familiar with the surroundings, there is comfort in this activity, it takes the fear out of being in unfamiliar surroundings
4. get to know your crowd, you know the names and designations, now attach a picture of them along with it, see how you are taking the fear of the unknown and making yourself comfortable here..
And remember someone believes you can handle this, they saw your capability and gave you this activity, just believe in yourself, just do it!! Striving for excellence is in your hands, the result is not in yours.If you get 80% of the job right in this event, then it’s a success, there is nothing called as a perfect event!! All the best????

Ans: it's crucial to understand and address the root of your fear. Reflect on the specific behaviors or situations involving your father or uncle that trigger your anxiety. Journaling can be a valuable tool in this process, allowing you to articulate your feelings and gain insight into the nature of your fear. Recognizing these triggers is essential for developing a plan to manage them.

Developing coping strategies is the next step. Techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness can help you remain calm in stressful situations. When you start feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to focus on your breathing—inhale slowly through your nose, hold briefly, and then exhale through your mouth. This practice can help ground you and reduce immediate anxiety.

Building a supportive network outside of your family can also provide significant relief. Surround yourself with friends, mentors, or a counselor who can offer guidance and a safe space to express your feelings. Talking to someone you trust about your fears can help you gain perspective and reassurance.

It’s also important to gradually build your confidence in handling interactions with your family. Start by setting small, manageable boundaries and practicing assertiveness in low-stakes situations. This can help you develop the skills needed to address more challenging situations when they arise.

If addressing these fears directly with your family feels too daunting, consider seeking professional help. A therapist can provide strategies to manage your fear and work through any underlying issues. They can also assist in developing communication skills and coping mechanisms tailored to your specific needs.

Ultimately, facing your fears is about building resilience and self-awareness. By taking these proactive steps, you can gradually shift from feeling overwhelmed to feeling more in control and empowered in your interactions with your family. Remember, it’s a process, and being patient with yourself as you work through these challenges is key.

Ans: Akansha, It is called 'teacher-phobia'.

You have NOT mentioned you are now in which standard/studying what/completed your studies, as you have mentioned about your failure in 'Interviews' also? According to you, what might be the reasons for your fear from teachers?

One of the reasons might be the 'Authoritarian Parenting Style' being followed by your parents since your birth or the atmosphere at your home. Or you might be an introvert.

There is nothing to fear from teachers. Involve in some 'Mind/Body Relaxation Activities' such as Yoga & Meditation.

Practice speaking fearlessly and confidently in front of your mobile camera and record it. Do this whenever possible. Watch your recorded videos and try to improve. If possible, join a Personality Development Course or approach a Psychological Counsellor who will help you to overcome your fear.

All the BEST for Your Bright Future.

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