Various Treatments

[ewilkins]

Can someone please advise me on a treatment that actually works? I do have to say one thing that has started to help me some. And by that, I mean has helped me with the thought of being around people who are s***. I have started watching videos on YouTube. At first, it really disturbed me but as time has gone on, has helped me some. Still not over the fear completely mind you, but it's helped a bit.

[stoneskipper]

That's great that watching the videos is helping you! I would suggest continuing that, and also exposing yourself repeatedly to the other things that scare you until they don't seem as disturbing/scary.

Along with that, the following can also be helpful:

- working some relaxation time into your day every day, 20-30 minutes at least - something like meditation, guided meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga
- cognitive behavioral therapy - probably best to do with a therapist, but there are also books/workbooks/websites that can walk you through it
- doing things to take care of your physical body like trying to eat healthier, get enough sleep, exercise - all of that can make you feel better mentally

[TryingToBeBrave]

I am emet and married an emet, which always worried me about when we would have kids. What actually helped me was exposure therapy, but it wasn't by choice. My son was born a preemie and has had severe reflux. My daughter (older) was almost never ill with much beyond a cold, but he v* multiple times a day from the time we brought him home from the NICU. This lasted about 2 years, maybe more, until we were able to get his reflux under control. It made a huge difference in my view of s*. I guess I just got used to it from being involuntarily immersed in a tough situation. So, if you can, try exposure at a rate you are comfortable. I would be it would help at least lessen the panic and anxiety.

[andee]

Yes, I am in the midst of exposure therapy for the first time. I have had this fear for over 30 years and have been in and out of regular therapy for years too. I feel it is helping but am still at the beginning. The therapists are convinced that this is the way to treat phobias. It's hard to be "exposed" to this stuff but I am willing to try anything!! Good luck.

[sage]

I just wrote a whole thing about CBT here: http://www.emetophobia.org/showthread.php?41023-Cbt
Hopefully it will be informative!