Hi all,

I was thinking to learn swimming, but I’ve realized my issue might be deeper than just being a beginner.

When I was a kid, I got briefly submerged underwater (3–5 seconds) while playing at a beach, and since then I’ve had a strong fear related to water and breathing.

Now even thinking about putting my face underwater increases my heart rate and if I try something simple like blowing bubbles, I panic almost immediately.

I feel like I’m losing control of my breathing, even though logically I know I’m safe

I also think this might be connected to mild claustrophobia.

If I feel physically restricted (like not being able to move my arms/legs), I start panicking and even something like being tightly held can trigger that feeling if I can’t move freely.

What’s confusing is that I know I’m not in danger and I can control my breathing outside water but my body still reacts strongly anyway.

I’ve tried slow breathing and gradual exposure (like starting outside water), which helps a bit, but the moment…