How to Overcome a Fear of Scary Rides. Rides at amusement parks and carnivals are designed to thrill and excite, but this isn’t always the case for everyone, especially those who might initially find them intimidating. However, these rides can offer a tremendous amount of fun and an excellent way to bond with friends and family. By understanding what scares you and taking concrete steps to address these fears, you can learn to enjoy these thrilling experiences. Here’s a guide to help you overcome your fear of scary rides.
Part 1: Thinking About Your Fear
Step 1: Identify What Scares You About the Ride
To overcome your fear, start by identifying what specifically makes you afraid. It could be the speed, the sharp turns, the height, or the sensation of falling. For some, it might be a past traumatic experience on a ride. Understanding the root cause of your fear allows you to address it more effectively. Look at pictures and videos of the ride, and imagine yourself on it. This visualization can help you pinpoint what exactly scares you.
Step 2: Set a Goal for Going on the Ride
Having a clear goal can motivate you to face your fear. It doesn’t have to be a grand objective; something simple like wanting to ride it once can suffice. This small, manageable goal can make it easier to take the first step and feel a sense of accomplishment afterward.
Step 3: Talk to Other People
Discuss your fear with friends and family, especially those who enjoy these rides. Sharing your fears and hearing about their positive experiences can be reassuring. Ask them how they overcame their initial fears and what they enjoy about the rides. This can provide you with different perspectives and tips on how to handle your anxiety.
Part 2: Getting Yourself on the Ride
Step 1: Slowly Expose Yourself to the Rides
Gradual exposure to your fear can help reduce anxiety. Start by watching videos of the ride and observing it in action when you visit the park. This method, known as exposure therapy, helps you become more accustomed to the sight and sounds of the ride, making it less intimidating over time.
Step 2: Get in Line for the Ride
Commit to going on the ride by putting yourself in situations where it’s hard to back out. Tell your friends you’ll ride it or purchase an expensive ticket to the park. This social or financial commitment can push you to follow through. Remember to focus on the future and the positive outcome rather than past instances where you may have chickened out.
Step 3: Avoid Catastrophizing
Catastrophizing involves imagining the worst possible outcome. Instead of thinking about what could go wrong, remind yourself of the safety measures in place. Amusement park rides are designed to be thrilling but safe, and statistically, they have very low accident rates.
Step 4: Use Relaxation Techniques to Stay Calm
Before getting on the ride, practice relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety. Progressive muscle relaxation, where you tense and then slowly relax different muscle groups, can help calm your nerves. Controlled breathing, involving deep, slow breaths, can also reduce stress and prepare you mentally for the ride.
Part 3: Enjoying Your Ride
Step 1: Try Out the Seats
Some rides have sample seats available for you to test. Sitting in these can help you get used to the feel of the ride and make you more comfortable with the restraint systems.
Step 2: Get on the Ride
The most crucial step is to get on the ride. You’ve done the preparation, so now it’s time to face your fear. Sit down, let the attendant secure you, and prepare for the experience. Remember, the anticipation is often scarier than the ride itself.
Step 3: Hold on to the Bar
Holding onto the safety bar can make you feel more secure. Although it doesn’t increase safety, the physical act of holding on can provide a psychological comfort.
Step 4: Keep Your Eyes Open
While it might be tempting to close your eyes, keeping them open helps you anticipate what’s coming next, which can reduce fear. Watching the track ahead can make you feel more in control.
Step 5: Go a Second Time
After your first ride, get back in line and go again. Repetition helps desensitize you to the fear and makes the experience more enjoyable each time. The more you ride, the more comfortable you will become.
Tips
- Embrace the Thrill: Understand that rides are designed to be exciting and evoke strong emotional responses. It’s okay to scream and express your emotions.
- Physical Fitness: Improving your physical fitness can reduce stress and help you fit comfortably in ride seats.
- Supportive Environment: Surround yourself with friends who support and encourage you, but don’t let anyone pressure you into riding before you’re ready.
Remember, overcoming a fear of scary rides is a gradual process. By understanding your fear, preparing mentally and physically, and taking small steps, you can learn to enjoy the thrills that amusement park rides offer.
