Hi, any emetophobia suffers? Please help
I've suffered with emetophobia (the fear of vomit in all senses including catching stomach bugs and being sick) since 2009 whilst it's gradually gotten better... I still have it and would like to see if I can make it disappear completely. Is there anyone else out there who could give me some tips and pointers on steps to help this, as it literally is ruining my life. I'm having an emetophobic episode as I type this message and whilst my partner understands i don't think he really expected me to be... A complete emotional, nervous wreck about it.
Any support right now would be grateful
X
@IrrationalKiwi1987
Hello there, lovely! First of all, I'm so glad that you're reaching out and seeking support, I know just how debilitating emetophobia can be, and no wonder you're so fed up with having it! It's really promising to hear that it's getting better, I hope that it continues to improve! If you don't mind me asking, do you know what it was that caused the phobia to develop in 2009? Sometimes knowing the root cause of our fears can help us adress them more effectively.
In terms of treatment, have you been able to see a doctor about your condition? Many sufferers report that a course of CBT can really help them to understand the thought patterns that cause them to have a phobic reaction, and help you better manage your anxiety. As a stop gap solution, managing the panic attacks themselves might help you to lead a more normal life! When you do have an episode, how long does it last for? Is there anything that helps to ameliorate it that you've found so far?
Some doctors recommend exposure therapy as a way to get around emetophobia, which seems like the most traumatic way possible to overcome a trauma, but that option is there should you wish to try it!
This is a pretty good resource sheet, if you wanted to have a read :)
