I've been claustrophobic for as long as I can remember. It's never been a problem, however, until recent years. I still go into elevators even though I don't like them. But I will no longer tour caves, go on theme park rides with no natural light, or go up the St. Louis Arch or Empire State Building.
In the last two years, I've had two panic attacks in closed-in spaces. The first one took place in a tunnel in Soeul. At the time, I don't think it helped that I was sleep-deprived and anxious about being so far from home. The second one happened while being held in a tunnel between an airport terminal and our airplane. Again, my adrenaline was high before I even got to the holding space due to several security annoyances.
I now try to control my stress level before entering a tight space with deep breathing and stretches. But, in all honesty, I know I won't always be successful. So, after years of worrying that my claustrophobia would eventually keep me from flying, I've decided to take action. I am now armed with Xanax to fight future panic attacks. And I already feel better just knowing I have a defense.
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