Many times I sit and try to rationalize how I feel so as to help myself and others understand this crazy thing we have... As I was trying to talk to my husband about this, he just stares at me like, "I don't understand what you're saying." I try to explain the panic I feel, and one way I try to tell him is that when you have a severe phobia to something such as heights - you just don't climb very high!! If you have a severe phobia to snakes, then you just don't go near them. But, if you are phobic about such a thing as v*ing, you have no real control over it. If you are exposed to it, chances are you'll get it. I do try to stay away from anyone that is sick, but sometimes, they are not sick at the time, but get sick later on - thereby exposing you. Some say that this is a control thing - wanting to have control over everything. I really don't think that is the issue. It is the dread of v* or seeing someone do it in front of you.
I wish I knew how to make my family understand my feelings. I think they try and seem sympathetic - but secretly I think they think I am crazy!!! Maybe not literally, but that I am just making too much out of what comes naturally (as they say). I love this site and it helps me just to talk to you guys. Thanks, Linda