My face was grey. I was bound to pass out at any given moment. A clammy sweat broke out on my brow. Passengers all around opened the windows. “Are you OK?” No I wasn’t. I had gotten on an express train.

For about 10 years I suffered from severe claustrophobia. I couldn’t go on an express train. I couldn’t cope being in traffic. Freeways were the worst. I never caught a plane to go anywhere. It was just too overwhelming. I needed to know I could get off. Those panic attacks were so debilitating.

Yeah sure, I have my health issues these days but the idea of not wanting to travel just seems so inconceivable. I’m so glad that I pushed through to conquer my fears back then. I did it by using exposure therapy.

Exposure Therapy

I didn’t know it was called Exposure Therapy until a few weeks ago. All I did was throw all caution to the wind, take a big gulp, book flights a year out to India and go.

Planes, trains and automobiles

It was hilarious really. I was on the flight for so long I looked like a wild woman having multiple panic attacks, hair on end sipping water, and sipping water, then changing planes for yet another. By the time of my return a few weeks later I was calm, I was cured.

An overnight train trip to the coastal town of Changanaserry brings fond memories. Then there were the 4WD adventures up to cashew nut plantations, then travelling by boat up the river with children running along the shore waving when they saw us.

As I reflect now after launching Travels with my Scooter I wonder how small my world would be these days if I hadn’t pushed through to overcome claustrophobia. I put my success down to being stubborn and Exposure Therapy.

Dezzie 2024