If you are battling a phobia, you will need support from your relatives and friends. However, if your phobia is severe, it is easy to find yourself relying more and more heavily on a single support person. While this is a natural tendency, it is not healthy for either of you. Here are a few tips to help you expand your support network.
Here's How:
Create a Network: The easiest way to avoid depending exclusively on one person is to create a network of support. Your network should include your therapist, primary support person and several other people that you trust.
Ask for Specific Help From Network Members: Different people have different skills. If you have a friend who regularly stays up late and likes to talk, she might be the one to call if you feel panicky late at night. A friend who is between jobs and has no kids may be the perfect partner for daytime trips to face your phobic situation.
Communicate With Your Network: Make sure that your therapist and your primary support person are aware of the tasks you have assigned to others. Communicate regularly with all members of your network to ensure that everyone understands how best to help you.
Show Gratitude: Never forget that your network is making sacrifices to help you succeed. Express your sincere thanks frequently.
Learn to Accept “No” Gracefully: Despite their best attempts, there will be times when your support people will be unable to do something you need. Realize that this is not a slight against you and do not take it personally.
Be Kind to Yourself and Others: Sometimes you will just feel frustrated, particularly if your phobia takes time to resolve. Remember that you and your support network are all doing the best you can. Take some time out to simply relax and avoid thinking about your phobia.
