How do I work around paralyzing fears?

[RoseInSpace]

I don't know why or where it started, but for years I have been so scared of dental care that I have a hard time even looking at a toothbrush. This is, as you all know, counterproductive. I hate that I am this way, but whether I do brush my teeth or not (any it's often "not" because the whole thing freaks me out so badly) I feel fear, guilt, and panic every time I'm in a room with a toothbrush, every time I hear teeth mentioned, every time I go to sleep or wake up.

I'm not scared of needles or x rays or lying back or dental dams or any of the specifics, it's more general than that. I think it's the uncertainty of how much pain I'm in for... and to be clear, it's sometimes quite a lot of pain. Going to the dentist is an exercise in totally shutting down mentally while I'm there and then having sometimes an hour-plus screaming meltdown afterwards in the car before I can drive myself home (not helped by my other major fear, driving).

I am so so so tired of being so scared of daily life. Anyone have strategies to get around either set of fears?

 

[Enarete]

Hi RosInSpace ,

it sounds to me like you came to the right place! this whole site is about strategies to cope with the different fears people may have. You will find plenty of articles, resources and threads here.

How about to look around and have some read on the fears and different strategies to help and see what resonates with you?

A good place to start is here:

An Easy Guide to Overcoming a Fear of the Dentist

Are you terrified of the dentist but need to go? Follow our step-by-step guide to tackling dental phobia and anxiety!

www.dentalfearcentral.org

By the way, please read through in your own time and pace. Depending on how easily you get stressed when it comes to dental stuff, even reading can make you anxious. It is then good to take a break and come again later to make sure you do not get overwhelmed.

 

[geos]

The dental office I go too started offering a collaboration with a psychologist/psychotherapist. It might be an option to work with someone that can help through those scares.