New to everything

[tweety]

Hi everyone.
Just started diving. I've always wanted to do it and when I finaly got all the gear on and in to the water I got scared (not sure if this is the right expression, more like panic). I don't know if that is something that happens to many people. The first dive was in "confined" water, but the visibilty was so low and it was cold and I was not very comfortable. Tried again and stayed on the surface. Than we went to the pool and everything was fine, completed all the excersises and now I should be back to the sea. I am afraid of my own reaction. I hope that now when I know what to expect it will be different. I really want to do it and was just wondering if some of you had simmilar fears at start. I know it is irrational, but that's just me.

 

[scubapolly]

Just take it slow. Nice slow breaths. Also try to maintain eye contact with your instructor on your descent, that can be very calming.

Where are you doing the dives?

Good luck.

Polly

 

[tweety]

It seems taht I have posted the question on the wrong forum. Sorry for that. Just wanted to say that this board is great source of information and support. Glad to be there. I will post the question in another forum.
Thx

 

[tweety]

Thank you for your response. I am currently in Abu Dhabi. The instructor is really great. Water is getting warmer these days and I hope that sand setteled down by now. It was very windy. I really tried to keep the eye contact and very mad at me that I could not calm myself. I do hope it is something that will pass.

 

[Jake]

Good luck. You might find that taking some time to snorkel the areas you'll be diving might help. Gets you over the fear of what's under you so that you can concentrate on just breathing.

 

[Divin'Papaw]

Welcome! Scuba and the ability to breath in the water is just not natural, and your body knows that. Give it time and take it slowly. I believe you will become more comfortable with it at your experience grows.

 

[spectrum]

Your experience is very common. How much other time you have spent in the water can make a big difference. So pause and relax. If you were OK in the pool you will get past this.

Stop and think about it... you are learning to breathe with your face underwater! Since birth you have been conditioned that this is dangerous. Of course with scuba gear you can safely breathe underwater but sometimed it takes a little time to convince you brain that this is OK.

If you were OK in the pool I suspect that the second session is where you make your breakthrough and you will probably be fine. This does not come instantly to everyone, just ask my wife. But with a little patience she became a fine diver.

I'm not sure what you mean by confined water and back to the sea but here are some suggestions.
*If you can get 1 more pool session to really get comfortable with stuff take it.
*Your next visit to the sea should be from the shore. With your potential discomfort I don't want you jumping off a boat. Walking in and putting your fins on in chest deep water can be reassuring. You'll soon leave the land behind and be gone before you know it.
*If you can get in any water, pool, confined or open before your next scuba session go for a nice long skin-dive. It will get your face in the water and condition you to breathe exclusively through your mouth. It will also enhance your general comfort in the water.

You can do this. Remember that diving is an adaptation including not only gear and skills but a litle bit of mental reprogramming as well. Take whatever time you need to make this transition. Do not let anyone rush you. Trust me, you will be glad you took the time and made the effort. Welcome to the sport.

Pete

 

[NEdivah]

Hi, and welcome to the board. I have had my wife kind of freak out on her first dive with me. Just relax and get control of your breathing and make sure that those diving with you go @ YOUR pace. Don't try to speed up to a more experienced diver and you should be fine. Good Luck!!

 

[tweety]

Thank you all. It really helps to know that I am not the only one who got scared the first time. I guess I'll be back in the water in a day or two.

 

[diverdenise]

Welcome: I can relate to your panic/fears. My brain was one that said people don't breath underwater as well as be underwater. Actually I had to close my eyes and relax myself when I could, (was only about 2 foot viz during my open water not much different either way open or closed...lol) it all worked out and I spent a few extra sessions with my instuctor. I have now learned additional techniques to keep from being overstressed, anxious, overtasked, etc. Breathing is the most important as was said and not letting others push you. You will soon be another addicted diver, congratulations.