How do I get over "phone-phobia"?

Question

I have never been very good at answering my phone or returning calls, but in the last 2 years it's become almost debilitating. I don't answer even when my friends are calling and when it comes time to call them back I tense up and put it off. I'm starting to ruin relationships and fall out of touch with people I care about. On top of it, I'm really outgoing and amiable in person so it doesn't make sense that I'd have this sort of anxiety. Any ideas?

Answer 1

That's interesting, well what you have to do if you want to overcome it is start by answering your phone when it rings and you can talk has much as you want but if it is bothering you say you have to go. The way to overcome phobia's is to actually face the problem. Once you get comfortable doing that you can start calling people, remember they like you they won't judge. Good Luck!

Answer 2

ugh I have the exact same problem. I hate talking on the phone, but i'm addicted to texting. I'm starring this question because I'd like to see what good recommendations people come up with.

Answer 3

I had this problem as well. but then I got a job where part of my job description was to answer phones at work. At first it was hard...but I quickly got over my fear of answering phones.

So perhaps volunteer at work to handle the phones while the receptionist is out.

Answer 4

i'm kinda scared to talk on the phone too, but in person i'm somewhat outgoing. you could try planning out what you're going to talk about, like what subjects you'll bring up, and that way, you'll feel more confident when you talk to people on the phone because you'll know what you'll say. I think it comes from overthinking things. talk about something you like and know a lot about, so that you don't run out of things to say and you'll be excited to talk about those things. or you could talk about weird experiences you had. i'm shy but i found myself talking nonstop about a weird dream i had, because it interested me. Good luck, i hope this helps!

Answer 5

i have this problem....i think it was caused when i was little and my mom would yell at me if i made a little mistake....its getting better now....but i cant imagine how bad it would be if it was a guy i really liked....I'd probably never call him back...