I think one thing that makes this phobia so hard to overcome is that v*
is something common, unlike a fear of snakes, which could easily be
avoided. Unfortunately, our phobia is tied to anxieties about
germs, and the lack of control when going into a public place.
Even a fear of heights (which I also have) is a piece of cake compared
to emets. I think because we feel the hammer could fall at any
time, that makes it worse. With heights, you don't "suddenly" end
up at the top of stairs or a mountain. But with emets, your body
produces feelings that make your fear 100% worse and this can happen at
any time. Many of us also have IBS or sensitive tummies and that
only adds to the fun. [img]smileys/smilies_05.gif[/img]

I wouldn't feel the least bit like a phony. Our phobia happens to be a more difficult one to overcome.