Five Techniques to Get Over Your Fear of Spiders
1. Face Your Fear
The general consensus of experts is: look what you fear most in the face, which is easier said than done when fear makes you dizzy, nauseated, breathe rapidly, increases your heart rate and causes you to sweat profusely. For many it only takes the thought of even a picture of a spider to create similar sensations. That said, facing your anxiety and fear does work, but if you hesitate to do this up front, understanding your anxiety is a gentler first step.
David D. Burns, M.D., in “The Feeling Good Handbook,” talks about anxiety triggered by negative thought. In this light, it conjures-up things like creepy-crawly, and dreaded factors associated with spiders. Work on replacing destructive (to you personally) thoughts with positives. Concentrate on the good things. Spiders prey on flies, crickets and other insects and without them we would have an inordinate amount of pests. Most spiders are not dangerous to humans. Of over 400 species of spiders in Texas, for example, only two are poisonous.
2. Seek Counselling and Hypnotism
This is an expensive option, but fear of spiders is a phobia that causes anxiety, and professionals know how to address it. Many counsellors use virtual reality to treat patients. Here, you interact with a 3D computer simulation. You are able to see what affect your actions and any reactions you might have.
The London Zoo has a ‘Friendly Spider Program’. Over 2000 people have attended this four-hour course, since 1993. The stress-free program includes group hypnosis and a visit to the BUGS Building. The May and June 2011 courses are full, but there are openings in July and beyond. The next course is 2 July 2011. The cost is £130, with half price for seniors, students, those on income support and children under the age of sixteen. (Not in London? Check locally)
3. Pest Control Companies
One feels more comfortable in one’s house when they know spiders do not share their abode. There are spider extermination experts and many offer free inspections. There are glue-based spider traps on the market. The advantage is that they attract spiders, yet are pesticide free for humans, pets and food exposure in your home.
4. Clean
Pest control involves cleaning areas where spiders are. If this is a job you absolutely cannot handle, ask friends or family for help. Eliminate webs when you see them. Your vacuum cleaner helps with the former and keeps dust down. Spiders also resonate toward dampness, something many people do not know.
5. First Aid Kits
There are first aid kits available (the brown recluse spider equipment is £20), and brings a sense of relief because you know how to treat a bite. Again it is important to know what spiders are in your area.
Some of the above are helpful to understand and reduce anxiety. Others bring comfort.
