7 Ways to Overcome Your Fear of Scuba Diving
April 3, 2024
Up to 9% of the human population suffer from ‘thalassophobia’: a fear of deep bodies of water such as lakes and the ocean. Not only that, but four out of ten Americans are scared of swimming in the ocean due to a fear of sharks and some people have a fear of scuba diving. Thankfully, all of these can be overcome, so you can enjoy the underwater world and explore with confidence.
Scuba diving is a great way to overcome a fear of deep water, as you can see clearly and breathe normally while you are in the water. If you are nervous to try scuba diving because you are afraid of what might be in the water, or what might happen in a new environment, you are not alone! We are here to help you face your fear of scuba diving and start seeing the ocean in a new, less scary way.
A few facts to ease your mind
Many new divers are nervous about deep water because they do not know what might be below them. They may also be scared of drowning if they are not a confident swimmer or cannot exit the water easily. These are common worries, but here are a few facts and statistics about the ocean and scuba diving to help you feel better about your fears:
- There are around 60 deaths a year from scuba diving. However, there are between six and nine million active scuba divers around the world! So the likelihood of a diving accident occurring is extremely low.
- The most common cause of diving accidents is diver error. In other words; divers taking unnecessary risks and not following the rules.
- During the SSI Open Water Diver program, you learn in-depth theory and practical skills to keep you safe in the water. If you follow these rules, the risk of scuba diving injury is very small.
- Sharks are usually high on the list of why people are scared of the ocean, but you are more likely to be killed by a cow than a shark!
- On average, only between 5 and 15 people worldwide die each year from sharks.
7 ways to overcome your fear of scuba diving
If you are still nervous about diving, here are seven things you can do to overcome your fear of scuba diving and take the plunge:
1.Become a confident swimmer
Being able to swim and tread water confidently can help you to feel safe in deep water. If you know that you can swim a good distance, or float on the surface for a good amount of time, you will know not to panic when you finally get the courage to enter deep water.
Depending on your current swimming level, you might choose to start with swimming lessons, doing laps in a swimming pool, or swimming in shallow ocean/lake waters.
Top tip: Make sure that you stay safe in open water environments by wearing bright colors, choosing somewhere with a lifeguard on shift, and never swimming alone.
2.Start by snorkeling.
Snorkeling is a fun way to ease yourself into scuba diving for the first time. Snorkeling helps you to become comfortable wearing a mask and snorkel, perhaps wearing fins on your feet, too.
You will be able to look down at the fish and coral and comfortably float at the surface. Snorkeling is the easiest way to view marine life and gain confidence in the water, before moving to scuba diving. It helps you to overcome your fear of scuba diving whilst experiencing the joy of being in the ocean.
3.Try an introductory dive first
If you are nervous about scuba diving, you do not have to start with a full certification program. An introductory program, such as the SSI Try Scuba program allows you to experience scuba diving without committing to an in-depth program.
You will learn about the equipment, learn the theory you need to stay safe and to communicate underwater, and then try scuba diving under the close supervision of an experienced dive professional.
After the Try Scuba program, you will likely be hooked and eager to become a certified diver!
Top tip: Visit your nearest dive center and have a chat with the instructors. They will answer your questions and put your mind at ease before you start diving.
4.Dive with someone you trust
Nervous to be joining strangers on a scuba diving program? Having someone you trust can help you feel at ease when learning to dive. You can share your fears with them, be supported by someone who knows you well, and enjoy the process together.
You will create some great memories together and it could make all the difference if you are feeling nervous.
Top tip: Learn to dive with your friend or family member in warm, clear waters - such as on vacation. Being warm and comfortable will make it easier to learn.
5.Explain your fears to your instructor.
Dive professionals are trained to know how to support you in the best way. They have seen it all, and you definitely will not be the first person they have taught who has a fear of scuba diving.
Talk to your instructor about how you are feeling. It will allow them to teach you at a pace that suits you and take more time getting you comfortable in the water.
Everyone learns and progresses at a different pace; your instructor knows this and will not push you to do anything you are not comfortable with. Do not be shy to speak up if you are nervous.
6.Research marine life in the area.
Most marine life poses no threat to scuba divers. Having said that, if you have a fear of scuba diving, it could be a good idea to choose a location where marine life like sharks and other big creatures are not seen by divers.
You could also research any marine life that may sting or burn, so you know what to avoid. Make sure you also find some marine life you would love to see!
Get inspired: Check out SSI’s wildlife guides for the incredible marine life you can encounter as a scuba diver
7.Breathwork and meditation
Breathwork and meditation can make a huge difference in making you feel relaxed and calm in the face of an uncomfortable or new situation. Look into some easy breathwork practices for relaxation and an easy meditation that can be done at any time.
Also, take a few minutes to breathe calmly, clear your mind, and become relaxed before entering the water. It might mean the difference between facing your fear or bailing on the experience.
Top tip: Read our guide to overcoming diver anxiety for some top ways to reduce your fear and start enjoying your dives.
We hope we have given you the courage to start scuba diving. Ready to dive in?
Book a try dive or even your full Open Water Diver course. Once you start diving, you will love it!