Facing your fears
Fear is a natural response that keeps us alert to danger and helps us stay safe. It’s completely normal to want to avoid things that make us feel afraid. When we avoid things, it can give us temporary relief from unpleasant physical feelings and emotions that we experience when we’re afraid, such as a racing heart or shortness of breath.
In situations that are dangerous or threatening, fear is a healthy and adaptive response. Feeling afraid can be uncomfortable, and it usually passes when the source of your fear is gone, or you realise the situation isn’t as dangerous as you first thought. Sometimes, fear can be excessive. You may be feeling afraid more often, in more situations and in situations that are not dangerous. It can start to impact your daily life and stop you from doing things that you want to do.
Fear may start off impacting your life in small ways. This can include starting to say no to activities you used to enjoy and over time, it can lead to avoiding people, places and situations that you start to associate with the fear.
We have helpful information, tools, and an evidence-based program to help you overcome fears that are holding you back.
Understand what’s going on with your fears
While avoiding the things that make you feel afraid can help you feel better in the short-term, in the long run it can be unhelpful. It prevents you from learning that you can handle the situation that you are avoiding.
If you're struggling with fears that are getting in the way of your life, it may be time to find out if your level of fear is excessive and if so, what steps you can take to overcome it.
Want personalised guidance?
Try our free online program that uses a proven Low-intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (LiCBT) approach to help you overcome excessive fears. Through this program, you will learn techniques that will help you gradually face your fears in a supported way, to break the fear and avoidance cycle.
What to expect
- Three interactive stages, spread over about six weeks
- Work through the program at your own pace
- Practical activities you can apply in everyday life
- Guidance and scheduled phone check-ins with a Medicare Mental Health Check In practitioner.
Ready to start this program?
The first step is to call 1800 595 212 or request a callback from Medicare Mental Health. Speaking with Medicare Mental Health will help decide whether an online program is right for you, and if so, how to access and start the program. If this service isn’t the right fit, they will connect you to a more suitable service.
Supporting someone else
If you're helping someone else to look after their wellbeing, there are resources and support options available to help you and them. You don't have to do it alone.
