Diving with Claustrophobia

[Chr is Hipp]

I was just the same way. In fact, I put off diving for over two years because I was so freaked out from my OW certification where I did the exact thing you did. I sucked it up and finished the class so that it wasnt a waste but I really didnt want to get back into the water.

I finally did a couple dives early in June and I was freaking out a lot at first, but I just went slow, started at a couple feet then down to five, ten, twenty, thirty...went down to 35 just because it was too cold without wetsuits to go further.

Point of the story, if diving is something you really want to do, then just get back in the water and go at your own speed, just make sure your buddy knows that they may spend an entire dive at 5 feet.

I should also add that I am a bit claustrophobic and afraid of water, that is why I decided to get certified.

 

[Tricia]

I should also add that I am a bit claustrophobic and afraid of water, that is why I decided to get certified.[/QUOTE]

Good for you! Fortunately, although I can get claustrophobic on land (elevators, etc.), I never am underwater because I always dive in clear water and can see the surface above me. But like you, I was not too comfortable in water (3 near-drownings as a kid), so part of the reason I took scuba diving lessons was to help me get over the nervousness. I can honestly say that scuba has helped me immeasurably with this by teaching me that I'm capable of doing things I once thought I never could. I've been diving for several years now and am totally comfortable - thanks to scuba!

Tricia :10: