My office is moving and I will have to go on public transport to get to it. But I'm TERRIFIED of public transport and actually feel like resigning because I can't overcome my fear....

[Terrified]

I just don't know what to do

A few years ago, on my way back from a night out, I came down with one of those vomiting bugs while I was on a train. Vicious, violent stomach cramps and persistent vomiting. No toilets on the train. I had to get off it as the other passengers were (a) horrified and (b) about to ask the driver to stop so I got off at the next station. It was the last train home.

I stumbled out of the station and no taxi driver would take me because of the vomiting. It was very late at night (after midnight) and I had no-one to call as I was about 45 mins from home. Eventually, a few hours later, after lying in a bus stop until I stopped vomiting, I managed to hail a cab at about 3.30am (he was on his way home) and persuade him to take me home (cost about £40 but I was just so relieved). I think I went through all circles of hell that night.

Have tried to address the fear and can manage short journeys but nothing longer (can only manage journeys where I can potentially walk back - it's related to a fear of being stuck somewhere and unable to get home).

I know I should probably have counselling but I had a brief chat with a friend (counsellor) who said CBT would help but the bottom line is that I have to face my fear and just get used to going on public transport for long journeys. I am so frightened though, that even the thought of it makes me want to be sick which of course, then perpetuates the fear of getting stuck again.

yes, although even on scooter/moped, it would be a pretty long trip. A HUGE part of me wants to face this fear head on and get rid of it iyswim. I just can't seem to find the time or courage to make the first step.

Out of interest Beetroot, are you free of these fears now? I know it is possible to 'manage' the fear as I've done it before, I'm just annoyed that I've let it get so out of hand this time.

I'm the same as you. I will no go on the tube anymore at all and I don't like buses either, I also don't fly but that's another matter. I've worked out that I'm clasutrophobic as I also don't like lifts, I'm terrified of heights (won't go above a few floors in a building even) and it's a control issue too in that I can't get off whenever I want to. I get panicky at the thought of being stuck in the tunnels as well.

I used to live in London and travelled on the tube every day when I was younger and buses so I know I could do it but I can't seem to manage. We drove to Lisbon before having children so I could avoid flying as well, day and a half on the boat and then 1ish hour drive.

Whereabouts are you, Terrified? DH cycles into work most days and it takes him less time than it would take by train, so it might not be out of the question.

Terrified - It is pretty much gone now although I keep a little one just to remind me. I think I am going to have to face it now as my new job mean I will have to confront it. But I guess I am in a position where I know I can if I need to and it does not put me in a blind panic - just a niggle.