By Mark DaCosta-In a nation like ours, where waterways are lifelines and boat rides are part of everyday life, few would imagine that something as routine as stepping onto a boat could evoke intense fear. Yet, for some, this seemingly simple act triggers a paralysing phobia that can disrupt their lives in ways others might not understand.
One morning, as I stood at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling, preparing to board a boat to Georgetown, I was suddenly overwhelmed by an inexplicable terror. The simple task of stepping from the stelling onto the boat felt insurmountable. Embarrassed by my fear, I pretended I had forgotten my keys at home and retreated to take a bus instead.
It wasn’t the first time I had experienced this. Another day, having managed to board the boat and crossed the river, I found myself unable to step off once we reached Georgetown. Again, shame consumed me, and I lied, claiming I had a back injury that required assistance to disembark.
These experiences are symptomatic of a specific phobia — a type of anxiety disorder that causes intense, irrational fear of situations, objects, or activities that pose little or no actual danger. Phobias are not just ordinary fears; they are often so overwhelming that they can lead to severe avoidance behaviour, affecting daily life.
As clinical psychologist Dr. Maya Spencer explains, “A phobia isn’t just being afraid of something; it’s a fear so severe that it interferes with your ability to function in normal situations.”
Phobias are more common than many realise. According to the World Health Organization, up to 10 percent of people worldwide will experience some form of phobia during their lifetime. These can range from common fears like heights (acrophobia) or flying (aviophobia) to more unusual ones, like the fear of crossing bridges (gephyrophobia) or, as in my case, the fear of transitioning between land and water.
The symptoms of a phobia are both physical and psychological. When confronted with the phobic stimulus, individuals may experience rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, and an overwhelming desire to flee. The mind becomes fixated on the perceived danger, making it nearly impossible to think rationally about the situation.
As Dr. Spencer notes, “Phobias trigger the body’s fight-or-flight response, even when there is no real threat. This reaction is automatic and uncontrollable, making it very difficult for the person to calm down or confront their fear without help.”
The origins of phobias are not always clear. Some phobias develop after a traumatic experience, while others may be learned from observing others or even emerge without any obvious cause. Genetic predisposition also plays a role. Studies suggest that if a close relative has a phobia, there’s a higher chance of developing one as well. Environmental factors, such as growing up in a culture where certain fears are prevalent, can also contribute to the development of phobias.
Living with a phobia in Guyana, where boats are an essential mode of transport, adds an extra layer of challenge. The fear isn’t just an inconvenience; it can disrupt your ability to carry out daily tasks, limiting your mobility and independence. Yet, despite the profound impact phobias can have, they are often misunderstood or dismissed by those who haven’t experienced them. This lack of understanding can lead to feelings of isolation and shame for those affected, making it even harder to seek help.
However, treatment for phobias is available and can be highly effective. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used approaches, helping individuals gradually face their fears in a controlled and supportive environment. “CBT is about challenging the irrational thoughts that fuel the phobia,” says Dr. Spencer. “Through gradual exposure and cognitive restructuring, individuals can learn to manage their anxiety and reduce their fear over time.” In some cases, medications such as beta-blockers or antidepressants may be prescribed to help control the physical symptoms of anxiety, although these are often used in conjunction with therapy rather than as a primary treatment.
For those living with phobias, seeking support is crucial. Talking to a mental health professional can help demystify the condition and provide strategies for coping. Support groups, whether in person or online, can also offer a sense of community and understanding, reducing the isolation that often accompanies phobias.
As a nation, it’s important that we foster a greater awareness of mental health issues like phobias. These are not simply quirks or personal failings, but real conditions that deserve understanding and compassion. By recognising the challenges faced by those living with phobias, we can create a more supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help and overcome their fears.
After all, in a land where resilience is a part of our national identity, confronting our fears—no matter how irrational they may seem—is a courageous act that deserves respect.
