Newbie diving anxiety - how to overcome?

[DiveMaster176493]

the more you dive the better it gets just be patient with each other.

dont suggest you jerk out his reg and ask how comfortable he breaths then.
but you might point out that air is a good thing

 

[DiveGolfSki]

So far a couple of people have talked about something that might be part of the problem--breathing through the nose. In the past few weeks I have worked with several students who really struggled with this. For some people, it is wholly unnatural to breathe only through the mouth, and it is very difficult to overcome a lifetime of nose breathing.

Yes but ... when you've got a cold and your nose is clogged up ... humans breath through their mouths. Maybe, that's another drill for those with nose breathing issues.

No for us snorers ... no problem ... wakes up the fish too. :11:

 

[Wristshot]

The mains things are to 1) never press him and 2) let him progress at his own pace. (I guess that really is just one thing).

He will only become confortable when he becomes comfortable, and no amount of outside pressure will make that happen any faster or any better. It is important for you to be supportive and patient, and to never let him feel that he is "holding you back".

Best of luck. Hopefully in a couple months you will be posting about how everything worked out great and he is completely comfortable underwater.

W