I'm afraid of thunder. Can you help?

Question

I have this overwhelming phobia of loud noises. Thunder is a constant problem. Luckily, it's winter and it doesn't thunder until spring. Anyway, I've tried exposure therapy. I cracked after a while and ran into my basement, where it is sound-proof. What should I do? I'd feel embarrassed asking my parents to take me to a therapist. Besides, I don't want to waste their money. How can I get over this? I've had this for years.

Answer 1

ear plugs. they work wonders. i cant sleep without them. i have hypervigilance and can hear EVERYTHING .... i put in ear plugs, turn on a sound machine (you can get them at walmart)... and it drowns out the noise.

Answer 2

So, is thunder the only loud noise you run from? Or, do other loud noises cause your insides to shudder as well? There are people who are super-sensitive to sound, hearing it louder than others do.

Some people are naturally more jumpy than others, more fearful.

Others have had a bad experience in the past and anything resembling an aspect of that initial event can "trigger" us into having a physical or emotional reaction. -- That's what Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is based on.
If this is the case with you, then Therapy with a Counselor can be helpful to you. It doesn't take it all away, but they can help you to feel safer, react less strongly, and to minimize your fears.

If thunder is your only loud reaction, try to re-frame how you think of it.
--Ever hear the story of Rip Van Winkle? The old men back in the hills were spending their time BOWLING (thunder is a similar sound)
--I tend to feel comforted and reassured at the sound of thunder. I think of God, our creator speaking his voice to us in the thunder, letting us know to not worry, "He's got the whole world in His hands" (just like the song says)

Answer 3

Well first off how old are you? (Not trying to make fun of you, I swear, it may be a thing you may grow out of.) And you could try just sitting in a room where you can hear it, but try putting a pillow or something to make it not as loud, then progess to where it is normal volume. Slowly get used to the noise. I used to be afraid of thunder, but that was when i was little, so I'm not quite sure this is the same thing, it may just be a phobia or mental issue that you may need to ask for help with.
I hope this helps, if not, you can contact me and give me more info at [e-mail]
Good luck. : )