Introduction

The chapter "Deep Water" by William Douglas is an insightful account of

overcoming one of the most common and intense fears: the fear of water, or
aquaphobia. In this autobiographical story, Douglas narrates his traumatic experience
of nearly drowning as a child, which led to a lifelong fear of water. His struggle
highlights how fear, particularly phobias, can deeply affect a person’s mental and
physical well-being, influencing their daily lives, decisions, and experiences. The
chapter offers a profound exploration of how the mind works in the face of fear,
showing the transformative power of persistence, gradual exposure, and support from
others in overcoming even the most paralyzing phobias.

This project aims to delve into the psychological aspects of phobias and fears,
particularly aquaphobia, as depicted in "Deep Water". It will examine the causes of
phobias, their impact on a person’s life, and practical steps to overcome them,
inspired by the narrative of William Douglas. Through this project, we will explore
techniques such as gradual exposure, cognitive restructuring, and support systems
that can help individuals face their fears. By understanding both the psychological and
emotional challenges of overcoming phobias, we aim to offer insights into how
people can regain control over their fears and lead more fulfilling lives.

Phobias and fear of people

The phobias and fears in "Deep Water" are:

1.

Fear of Water (Aquaphobia): The central theme of the chapter is William

Douglas' fear of water. He developed this fear after a traumatic experience as a
young boy when he was thrown into a swimming pool by a larger child. The
experience of almost drowning left a deep, psychological scar, and he
developed a lasting fear of water, avoiding it for many years.

Impact: The fear affected his life significantly, preventing him from
learning how to swim or enjoying water-related activities, which are often
considered fun or relaxing.

Fear of Drowning: This is a direct consequence of his aquaphobia. The fear

of drowning became so intense that even the sight of water or being near it
could trigger anxiety. The phobia led to physical symptoms like a racing
heartbeat and a feeling of suffocation.
 Fear of Being Overpowered or Helpless: Douglas' fear was also tied to a
sense of helplessness. As a child, he had no control over the situation, which
made the experience more traumatic. This helplessness contributed to his fear
of being in situations where he might not have control or escape routes. This is
particularly noticeable in the swimming pool scene when he was thrown into
the deep end and felt powerless to save himself.

Fear of Rejection or Mockery: Douglas also feared the judgment of others.

His inability to swim became a source of insecurity, and he worried about
being mocked by others who were proficient swimmers. This fear of
embarrassment also kept him away from water for many years.

Thanatophobia (Fear of Death): People with aquaphobia often experience

thanatophobia, particularly when their fear involves the possibility of drowning. This
can extend beyond the fear of water to a broader existential fear of death.

Psychological impact

Persistent Anxiety and Stress

Douglas’ fear of water stemmed from a traumatic near-drowning incident in his

childhood, which created a lasting psychological impression. This kind of trauma
often triggers chronic anxiety, where the mere thought of facing the feared object or
situation (in this case, water) brings about heightened stress. For Douglas, even the
sight of water could induce feelings of panic and unease, a common symptom of
phobias. This anxiety becomes a mental burden, affecting day-to-day life and often
leading to avoidance behavior, which may create a cycle of increasing fear and
avoidance.

 Emotional Toll: The anxiety associated with phobias often leads to feelings of
helplessness, frustration, and a diminished sense of control, making the
individual feel trapped by their own fear.

2. Impaired Self-Esteem and Confidence

In the chapter, Douglas also reveals how his fear of water impacted his self-esteem.
His inability to swim made him feel inferior, especially around others who could
easily swim or enjoy water activities. Phobias often lead to feelings of inadequacy
and social anxiety because individuals might worry about being judged or ridiculed
for their fear. This sense of inferiority can affect one's self-worth and hinder personal
growth, as individuals avoid situations that may expose their vulnerabilities.

 Social Isolation: People with phobias often avoid social situations that could
trigger their fear, leading to a sense of isolation and a reluctance to participate
in group activities. This avoidance reinforces feelings of low self-esteem and a
sense of being different from others.
3. Cognitive Distortions and Fear of Losing Control

Douglas’ experience exemplifies how phobias distort a person’s thoughts. When he

was initially confronted with water, his mind began to associate the experience with
danger and death (the fear of drowning). Such cognitive distortions, or irrational
thinking patterns, are common in phobias. The mind often exaggerates the risks
involved in the feared object or situation, leading the individual to feel overwhelmed
by catastrophic thoughts. This pattern of thinking can make even a simple situation
seem insurmountable.

 Loss of Control: Phobias can create a deep sense of vulnerability, where

individuals feel powerless to manage their emotions or reactions. For Douglas,
the feeling of being unable to control his fear of water led to a profound sense
of helplessness.

4. Physical Manifestations of Fear

The psychological impact of phobias often manifests physically. In Douglas' case, his
fear of water likely resulted in physiological responses such as increased heart rate,
shortness of breath, sweating, and muscle tension. These bodily reactions are part
of the fight-or-flight response triggered by fear. Over time, this chronic state of
heightened arousal can lead to physical exhaustion, irritability, and even health
problems like insomnia or digestive issues.

 Fear Conditioning: The more frequently the fear is triggered, the more
ingrained the physiological response becomes, leading to a cycle of
continuous anxiety whenever the fear-inducing situation arises.

5. Trauma and Memory

The root of Douglas' fear was a traumatic memory of nearly drowning as a child,
which formed the basis of his phobia. Trauma can significantly alter the way the brain
processes and recalls memories, making the individual over-sensitive to situations that
are associated with the trauma. This phenomenon is known as post-traumatic stress,
where the traumatic memory is repeatedly re-experienced through flashbacks or
intrusive thoughts. For Douglas, the memory of almost drowning in the pool became
a vivid and haunting experience, which prevented him from feeling safe around water.

 Emotional Residue: Over time, the trauma associated with the phobia can
lead to a persistent emotional residue, where feelings of fear, shame, or
helplessness remain even when the immediate threat is no longer present.
6. The Path to Healing: Psychological Growth and Resilience

In "Deep Water", we also see how overcoming the fear of water led to psychological
growth and resilience for Douglas. The process of facing and gradually overcoming
his fear allowed him to regain a sense of self-efficacy, or belief in his ability to
control his own actions and outcomes. This experience helped build emotional
resilience, teaching him how to manage anxiety and fear in a constructive way.

 Empowerment: By confronting his phobia, Douglas experienced a sense of

empowerment that is typical in individuals who successfully face their fears.
This process often leads to increased self-confidence and the development of
healthier coping mechanisms for future challenges.

Overcoming fears

1. Gradual Exposure Therapy (Systematic Desensitization)

Gradual exposure is a common and effective approach to overcoming phobias. This

method involves slowly and progressively exposing yourself to the feared situation or
object in a controlled way, allowing you to desensitize and reduce the intensity of
your fear over time.

Steps:

Identify Fear Triggers: Start by identifying specific aspects of the fear. For example,
in "Deep Water", Douglas’ fear was triggered by being near water, and later by
thinking about swimming. Recognize the different scenarios that trigger your fear.

Create a Hierarchy of Fear: Rank the situations related to the fear from least
anxiety-inducing to most. For instance:

1. Imagining water (least intense)

2. Watching others swim
3. Standing near the pool
4. Dipping your feet in the pool
5. Swimming in shallow water
6. Swimming in deeper water (most intense)

Start Small and Gradually Increase Exposure: Begin with the least anxiety-
provoking situation (e.g., imagining water or watching a video of swimming)
and work your way up to more challenging situations. As you become more
comfortable, continue to gradually increase the intensity of exposure.
 Focus on Relaxation: During each exposure, practice relaxation techniques
like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation to manage anxiety. Over
time, your body will learn to associate water with relaxation, not fear.

Example:

Douglas' experience with his instructor involved him gradually becoming comfortable
with water. He started with just dipping his toes and moved to gradually entering
deeper water, which was a critical part of overcoming his fear.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment that helps

individuals identify and change negative thought patterns associated with their fear. It
is highly effective in treating phobias.

Steps:

Identify Negative Thoughts: Recognize the irrational beliefs or catastrophic

thoughts that fuel your fear. For example, Douglas thought that he might
drown if he went near water, an exaggerated and irrational belief.

Challenge the Negative Thoughts: Once you identify these thoughts,

challenge their validity. Ask yourself questions like:

1. "What evidence do I have that this fear is realistic?"

2. "What’s the worst that could happen, and how likely is that?"
3. "How many people safely swim in water every day?"

Replace Negative Thoughts with Positive, Rational Ones: Reframe your

thoughts into more balanced, logical ones. For example, replace "I will drown
if I swim" with "I am learning the skills I need to swim safely" or "I am in
control of my actions around water."

Practice New Thought Patterns: Over time, the more you challenge and
replace irrational thoughts, the less they will influence your fear response.
This cognitive restructuring helps reduce anxiety and promotes more positive
and realistic thinking.
3. Build Self-Efficacy and Confidence

Self-efficacy refers to a person’s belief in their ability to succeed in specific

situations. In "Deep Water", Douglas built his self-efficacy through repeated practice
and mastery of swimming. By confronting the fear and gaining skills, individuals can
gain confidence in their ability to handle the fear-inducing situation.

Steps:

Set Small, Achievable Goals: Break down the process into small, manageable
tasks (like standing near a pool or walking through shallow water). Achieving
these goals helps build a sense of control and accomplishment.

Track Progress: Keep a journal or record of your achievements to remind

yourself of how far you’ve come. Even small victories are worth celebrating.

Positive Reinforcement: Reward yourself after completing each goal.

Whether it’s taking a break, treating yourself to something nice, or celebrating
with loved ones, reinforcing your progress helps boost confidence.

Reflect on Past Successes: Remind yourself of times when you’ve faced fears
or challenges and succeeded. This will strengthen your belief that you can
overcome other fears as well.

4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Learning to manage physical symptoms of fear—such as rapid heartbeat or shallow

breathing—can help you feel more in control of the situation. Mindfulness and
relaxation techniques are essential for reducing anxiety and staying calm when
confronting your phobia.

Steps:
 Deep Breathing: Practice slow, deep breathing exercises to calm your
nervous system when you feel fear rising. For example, inhale deeply for four
counts, hold for four, and exhale for four. Repeat several times.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tense and then relax different muscle

groups, working your way from your toes to your head. This helps release
physical tension and reduce overall anxiety.

Mindfulness Meditation: Practice mindfulness by focusing on the present

moment rather than worrying about past events (e.g., the trauma that caused
the phobia) or future fears (e.g., the possibility of drowning). By accepting
your thoughts and feelings without judgment, you can reduce their power over
you.

Visualization: Use visualization techniques where you imagine yourself

calmly interacting with water in a positive way. Imagine yourself swimming
peacefully or simply standing near the pool, feeling confident and relaxed.

5. Seeking Professional Help

If the phobia is significantly affecting your quality of life, it may be helpful to seek
professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in treating phobias.
Some individuals may benefit from Exposure Therapy (a form of CBT that focuses
specifically on confronting feared situations) or even Hypnotherapy in some cases.

Professional Approaches:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): As discussed, CBT can help you

reframe irrational thoughts and beliefs.

Exposure Therapy: This involves gradually and systematically exposing

yourself to your fear, under the supervision of a professional.
 Group Therapy: Sometimes, connecting with others who share similar fears
can provide support and encouragement, reducing feelings of isolation and
increasing motivation to face the fear.

1.

6. Support Systems

Having a support system—whether through family, friends, or a professional—can

make the process of overcoming a phobia less isolating and more manageable.

Steps:

Engage with a Supportive Network: Share your fears and progress with
friends or family members who can offer encouragement and understanding.

Join Support Groups: Consider joining an online or in-person group where

others are dealing with similar phobias. Sharing experiences can provide
valuable insight and create a sense of community.

Work with an Instructor or Therapist: Like Douglas did with his swimming
instructor, working with a knowledgeable and patient guide can help ensure
that the exposure process is safe, gradual, and supportive.

Impact on ones life and society

Mental and Emotional Strain

Chronic Anxiety: Phobias, such as the fear of water (aquaphobia), can

cause persistent anxiety and emotional distress. These feelings are often
triggered by the mere thought or sight of the feared object or situation. The
emotional toll of living with constant fear can lead to feelings of
helplessness, depression, and frustration.

Low Self-Esteem and Self-Doubt: A person struggling with a phobia may

feel inferior or inadequate compared to others who do not have the same
 fear. For example, in "Deep Water", William Douglas felt embarrassed
about his inability to swim, leading to a diminished sense of self-worth.
This can create a sense of isolation, where the individual feels
disconnected from others due to their fear.

Impact on Mental Health: Untreated phobias can contribute to more

severe mental health issues, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD),
panic disorder, or depression. The stress and emotional burden caused by
constant avoidance of feared situations can take a significant toll on an
individual’s overall mental well-being.

Physical and Health-Related Consequences

Somatic Symptoms: Phobias often come with physical symptoms, such as

dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and trembling. The body’s
constant “fight-or-flight” response can lead to chronic health issues,
including headaches, digestive problems, and even weakened immune
function over time.

Avoidance Behavior: People with phobias may begin to avoid situations

that trigger their fear, leading to a lack of physical activity, social
withdrawal, and other unhealthy habits. For example, someone with
aquaphobia might avoid pools, beaches, or vacations that involve water,
which can reduce their opportunities for physical exercise and social
interaction.

Limitation of Life Experiences

Social and Recreational Limitations: Many social activities, from

swimming and beach outings to vacations and sports, involve water. A
person with a water phobia may avoid such activities, leading to missed
opportunities for enjoyment and connection with others.

Academic and Career Impact: Phobias can affect professional and

educational development as well. In cases where water-related activities
are necessary (such as swimming lessons, water-related jobs, or even
vacation travel), an individual’s fear might limit their personal and
professional growth. This can lead to missed opportunities for
advancement and experiences.

Relationship Strain: Phobias can put a strain on relationships. A partner,

friend, or family member might feel frustrated or helpless when trying to
 support someone with a phobia. The fear-induced avoidance behaviors and
emotional reactions can create distance in relationships, preventing the
individual from fully engaging in social or familial activities.

Cognitive and Behavioral Limitations

Irrational Thought Patterns: Phobias often involve irrational thought

patterns, where the individual’s mind exaggerates the threat posed by the
object of fear. These cognitive distortions can make it hard for the person
to think clearly or logically when faced with the fear-inducing situation,
increasing the intensity of the phobia and making it harder to confront.

Reinforced Fear: The more an individual avoids their phobia, the more
entrenched the fear becomes. This creates a vicious cycle where the fear
becomes more powerful over time because the person has not faced it and
learned that the feared outcome (e.g., drowning) is not as likely as they
may think.

Impact on Society

Social Stigma and Misunderstanding

Stigmatization of Phobias: People with phobias may be misunderstood or

stigmatized, especially if their fear seems irrational to others. Society often
expects individuals to confront their fears and “just get over it,” leading to
a lack of empathy or understanding. This can prevent those suffering from
phobias from seeking help or talking openly about their struggles.

Limited Support Systems: The stigma surrounding mental health issues,

including phobias, can result in inadequate support systems. Individuals
may feel isolated or hesitant to ask for help, fearing judgment or ridicule
from others. This lack of support can delay recovery or exacerbate the
phobia’s impact on their life.

Economic Consequences
 Healthcare Costs: Phobias, when untreated, can lead to ongoing mental
health treatments, therapy, or medications. The economic burden on
individuals who need to manage their phobia with professional support can
be significant, especially if they face barriers to accessing treatment.

Workplace Productivity: Phobias can also affect an individual’s

productivity at work. If someone is avoiding certain situations (such as
traveling or attending work-related events), it can reduce their overall
performance or limit career opportunities. Additionally, employees may
take time off for mental health reasons related to their phobia, impacting
business efficiency.

Impact on Family and Relationships

Caregiver Burden: Family members or friends who care for someone

with a phobia may experience stress and frustration, particularly if they
feel helpless in alleviating their loved one’s suffering. This can lead to
emotional burnout and strain in familial relationships, as individuals
struggle to support a loved one with a phobia.

Social Isolation: The avoidance of social situations due to a phobia can

lead to broader societal isolation, as individuals may feel disconnected
from their communities. This isolation can create barriers to forming new
relationships, reducing the person’s social circle and support network.

Cultural Perception of Fear and Mental Health

Awareness and Education: Phobias highlight the need for better

awareness and education about mental health and the impact of phobias on
individuals. When society acknowledges that phobias are real
psychological conditions and not just irrational fears, it can foster more
understanding and encourage those who suffer from phobias to seek
treatment and support.

Public Safety: In extreme cases, untreated phobias can lead to dangerous

behavior, especially if an individual’s fear of water prevents them from
taking precautions or engaging in necessary safety measures (e.g.,
avoiding lifeguard courses, swimming lessons, or avoiding potentially
dangerous situations where water safety is necessary). Societal knowledge
of these phobias can help create safer environments and better public
health education programs.
Case Study: Deep Water Phobia
Client: Nikki , a 25-year-old woman
Presenng Problem:
Nikki has a deep water phobia .She has been afraid of deep water since she was
a child, andher fear has become increasingly severe over me. Nikki's fear is so
severe that she avoidsany acvity or situaon that involves deep water, such as
swimming, boang, and shing.
History of the Problem:
Nikki's fear of deep water began when she was 6 years old. She was swimming in a
lake withher family when she got caught in a current and was pulled out into deep
water. She panickedand nearly drowned, but she was rescued by her father. Since that
experience, Nikki has beenafraid of deep water.
Assessment:
Nikki's deep water phobia was assessed using a variety of methods, including
aclinical interview, self-report quesonnaires, and behavioral observaon. The
assessmentrevealed that Nikki has a signicant fear of deep water .
Treatment Plan:
Nikki's treatment plan was based on cognive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
andexposure therapy. Exposure therapy was used to gradually expose Nikki to deep
water in asafe and controlled environment.
Treatment Outcome:
Nikki was able to overcome her deep water phobia. She is now able toenjoy
acvies such as swimming, boang, and shing. She is also able to
parcipate in theseacvies without feeling anxious or fearful.
Conclusion:
Nikki's case study demonstrates that deep water phobia is a treatable condion.CBT
and exposure therapy can be eecve in helping people to overcome their fear of
deepwater and live full and happy lives.

Consider the case of Emma, a 30-year-old woman who developed aquaphobia after a
near-drowning incident at the age of 10. For years, she avoided water-based activities,
including swimming and vacations at the beach. Her fear began to impact her social
life and career, as she frequently declined invitations to beach outings and missed
opportunities to travel for work-related events in coastal areas.

Emma decided to seek therapy and began a course of CBT and exposure therapy. The
process was slow but rewarding. She started by watching videos of people swimming
and gradually moved to standing in shallow water with the guidance of her therapist.
Over several months, Emma’s fear diminished as she continued to face water in
controlled settings. She eventually felt confident enough to take swimming lessons
and went on a beach holiday with friends. Emma’s success story demonstrates the
power of therapy and gradual exposure in overcoming phobias.

The Silent Struggles: Understanding Phobias and Their Deep Impact

Phobias, in their essence, represent more than just simple fears. They are deeply
ingrained anxieties that affect people on a profound emotional and psychological
level. Among these, aquaphobia, the fear of water, is one of the most paralyzing.
While it might seem, to an outsider, like an irrational fear that can be overcome
through willpower, for those who suffer from it, the reality is far more complex.
Aquaphobia can shape lives, limit opportunities, and create a silent, pervasive sense
of dread that controls one's actions.

Living With Aquaphobia: A Personal Prison

Imagine being unable to take a bath, swim in a pool, or even go near a body of water
without feeling a wave of panic. This is the lived reality for individuals suffering from
aquaphobia. It’s not just a matter of avoiding a beach trip or being uncomfortable in a
swimming pool. It is about the constant, oppressive anxiety that looms over everyday
activities. People with aquaphobia may feel trapped, as if their fear is an invisible
chain that limits their freedom. It's not just about water – it's the fear of losing control,
the overwhelming sensation of helplessness that grips their mind, and the avoidance
that leads to more isolation.

The fear of water often becomes synonymous with the fear of being vulnerable.
Water, an element that we encounter daily, symbolizes safety and refreshment for
most. For those suffering from aquaphobia, it becomes a symbol of helplessness and
fear. Even a simple shower or a trip to the beach can feel like a battleground against
overwhelming emotions.

Psychological and Emotional Toll

The psychological impact of aquaphobia is severe. It's a form of anxiety disorder

that often leads to other mental health challenges. For individuals with aquaphobia,
life becomes a series of avoidance tactics. The mind constantly searches for ways to
keep them away from water-related situations, and this avoidance reinforces the fear.
This creates a vicious cycle: the more you avoid, the more your mind believes there’s
a real threat to be afraid of. Over time, this can evolve into a generalized anxiety
disorder, where a person’s entire worldview is filtered through the lens of fear. It’s not
just about water anymore; it’s about the potential for fear to strike at any moment,
causing a cascade of emotions.

The emotional toll can lead to a deep sense of frustration, embarrassment, and even
shame. People with phobias often feel misunderstood. They know that their fear is
irrational, but that does not make it any less real. The fear feels as valid and present as
any other threat. They might experience guilt for not being able to participate in social
activities, and that guilt often breeds further isolation. This becomes an invisible
wound – one that people rarely talk about because they fear being judged.

The Societal Implications: Silent Struggles in a World of Water

In a society where water-based activities are not only part of our recreational lives but
are also essential for safety (think swimming lessons for children or the basic ability
to bathe), phobias like aquaphobia have a far-reaching impact. Individuals with
aquaphobia may miss out on life skills, like learning to swim, which are crucial for
both fun and safety. There’s also the social aspect: family outings to the beach,
vacations by the lake, or casual trips to the pool all become sources of anxiety and
stress, rather than moments of relaxation and bonding.

For those who live with aquaphobia, their avoidance behavior often leads to
exclusion. They may have to turn down invitations to social events or avoid travel
opportunities. In an increasingly water-centric world, these challenges can be limiting.
But the more troubling aspect is that these individuals may suffer in silence. There’s a
lack of awareness in society about the deep emotional pain caused by phobias, and
often, these fears are minimized by those who do not experience them. The fear of
water is dismissed as “just a fear,” without understanding its profound psychological
roots.

Breaking the Silence: The Path to Healing

There’s a fundamental misunderstanding in society when it comes to phobias. People

often believe that phobias can simply be “willed away” or that individuals can simply
face their fears and move on. But the truth is much more complicated. For those living
with aquaphobia, confronting the fear isn’t about showing bravery; it’s about
therapeutic intervention and psychological healing.

Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy are
some of the most effective methods of treatment for phobias. But these methods take
time, patience, and most importantly, a willingness to work through difficult emotions
and confront the fear in a safe and structured way. These therapeutic processes allow
individuals to slowly deconstruct their irrational thoughts and fears, building up their
confidence, piece by piece.

However, healing doesn’t just happen in a therapist’s office. It requires support – not
just from professionals, but from friends, family, and society at large. It’s important
that we, as a society, begin to acknowledge and validate the experiences of those with
phobias. Understanding that a phobia like aquaphobia is a serious psychological
condition that requires empathy and support is key to making people feel less isolated.

A Call for Compassion

It’s time to recognize that phobias, including aquaphobia, are not just inconveniences;
they are serious, life-altering conditions. People who live with these fears do not
choose to experience them. They need our understanding, support, and patience. The
emotional and psychological toll is real, and it requires more than simple solutions.
Healing comes with time, effort, and understanding. As a society, we can do better by
creating safe spaces for those struggling with phobias to talk about their experiences
and seek help.

Conclusion

We must stop treating phobias like minor quirks or irrational fears. We must start
acknowledging their complexity and significance. Aquaphobia, like all phobias, is a
reflection of deeper psychological struggles. It is time to stop minimizing these
experiences and start offering the support and understanding that people with phobias
truly need.

In conclusion, aquaphobia, like other phobias, is a serious psychological condition

that significantly impacts an individual’s life. The fear of water can limit daily
activities, lead to social isolation, and cause deep emotional distress. While this fear
may seem irrational to those unaffected by it, for those who live with it, the anxiety is
very real and can be debilitating.

However, with the right therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral

Therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy, overcoming aquaphobia is possible. Support
from family, friends, and professionals plays a crucial role in recovery. It is also vital
for society to recognize the depth of these fears and provide understanding and
resources to help individuals manage and heal.

By fostering empathy and awareness, we can create a more inclusive society where
those affected by phobias, like aquaphobia, are supported in their journey toward
recovery and can live fuller, more confident lives.