Behind the Scenes - 302designs

The ABC News website has published an interesting story about facing one’s fears called “I Am Worry.” In it they describe a young college student who is paralyzed with fears, and her interactions with psychologists and published authors on the subject. One of them suggests “verbal exposure,” or repeating the fear so many times that it seems less frightening, almost ridiculous. Another offered a three-step plan for facing fears: talking to someone, getting the facts, and making a plan regarding how you will manage the fear when it is presented.

The article gives examples of people with extreme anxiety about such actions as flying, yet these steps are useful even for smaller fears. For example, someone with a fear of public speaking or social interaction would probably benefit from the tips given as well.

Most fears are unhealthy, especially when blown to large proportions. They can affect your career, your health and your relationships. Learning to deal with what frightens us most is an important part of our development.