my phobia is ruining my life

[@alexasunshine83]

*just a note:* sorry this video is kind of all over the place! Definitely should have put down some notes just to make it a little bit more concise, but this is quite a vulnerable subject to me that hopefully I was still able to share my story of my phobia and help any of you that experience the same thing! ❤️ *YOU ARE NOT ALONE* ❤️

[@carlysand7771]

Thank you so much for sharing your story! Mental health visibility is so important but so difficult! Thank you for reminding us all that we're not alone!

[@CarrieDayton]

STOP APOLOGIZING LOVE U 💗💗💗

[@sandie3475]

I have the same phobia. I became a vegetarian because I was afraid of getting sick from eating meet. I have been a vegetarian for sixteen years now! I work with kids and kids are sick a lot. I got panic attacks at work and couldn't do my job. Hypnosis has helped me a lot. Maybe you should give it a shot

[@lauren.hutchings]

Don’t apologize ever for this! I can’t even imagine how difficult it was to be this vulnerable on the Internet. You’re incredibly brave and just know that your story is going to help so many people. Thank you for this video and I truly hope that you will finally find something that with ease your fear and anxiety. Sending you lots of love💛

[@ashmoisiuk]

You’re amazing for having the courage to share this. I also have anxiety abs panic attacks and this does help. Xoxoxo so glad you’re doing what makes you happy being a KZbinr!!

[@maddybordner8122]

I feel like everyone has minimized anxiety or “normalized” it so much the people forget that it can be absolutely CRIPPLING.

[@ccw2613]

Thank you, as someone diagnosed with extreme anxiety disorder and panic attacks, specifically around anything medical. I hate it when people say everyone has anxiety or tell me to just get over it. Sometimes I feel like no one understands except my husband.

[@IonIsFalling7217]

“It’s just in your head.” YES SUSAN. So is my entire life and personality.

[@daniellejennings9016]

Yes! This!

[@pyjamabottoms670]

It's just become a meme now

[@Antilopz]

It has become normalized and it is very frustrating. It's like having anxiety and phobias are a trend now ? Is it a trend not being able to do everyday life tasks because you are just FROZEN in fear? I also deal with bad emetophobia, but also generalized anxiety disorder, and I get intense reactions in everyday life situation, and a lot of people do not understand them, but then everybody's "anxious" all of the sudden. Why. Why is it trendy to say you have anxiety.

[@CarrieDayton]

You KNOW how proud I am of you for this 💗

[@alexasunshine83]

🥲❤️ you help me more than you even know ❤️❤️

[@nonyabidnazz7487]

Carrie and Alexa.. WOW!!! 💜💜💜

[@katmariemp3]

I watched both of y'all before I knew we had the same phobia and wow, love y'all

[@juliasorenson2949]

You are such an amazing pairing. You two were meant to be friends, and I full heartedly believe that. You are such positive lights in each others lives and I love watching your videos. You are NOT crazy! Saying NO to opportunities is okay, you NEED to do what’s best for YOU. LOVE YOU ALEXA!!

[@els2231]

what really helped me with my emetophobia was thinking of throwing up as your body’s last resort that only happens when you have a stomach bug or food poisoning. you can go years without getting sick and it’s very unlikely to happen. i saw someone say the last time she got sick was when she was 6 and she’s now in her 30s and that made me feel so much better :) i hope this helps lol

[@melissasutton2121]

This is exactly what helped me. I just thought of it like, if it happens it must have to happen for a reason and I’ll feel better after.

[@gitzieisreading]

truly the part of this video where you talked about the minimization of anxiety and how something small for everyone else can feel earth shattering for you made me cry. i have a ton of trauma surrounding conflict and this is how i feel! people say it's not a big deal but for me it's just panic attack inducing. i'm so proud of you for making this video!

[@alexasunshine83]

Aw thank YOU for commenting this! It can feel so isolating in the moment, but conversations like this really help 😭❤️

[@daniellejennings9016]

Same, same. 💕

[@merppa9842]

I have OCD which is not the same thing but I can still relate to the feeling of fear and anxiety over something that might not seem like a big deal to someone else. It can be really hard sometimes so I feel you!

[@ashtonhose8235]

ERP therapy is great for phobias too, not just OCD!

[@jessiethompson4149]

i have ocd and emetophobia and they are so difficult to deal with. it's frustrating when people don't understand what is making you anxious.

[@Lex-ks7ib]

I have the same phobia!!! I don’t drink and haven’t in years because of it. You’re not alone and I’m so glad that you’re bringing light to this🌞

[@IonIsFalling7217]

I would never be able to drink and never have been. I also can’t sit in a certain seat in the car, or go on carnival rides, or eat out anywhere weird, or do sports.

[@devoncabelli8779]

I realized I had Emetophobia this past year and the pandemic specifically screwed me up because I was afraid that vomiting and nausea was a symptom of covid. I also struggle with drinking and going out to eat and even driving. I feel you so hard. And my anxiety would cause me to be nauseous. It’s a shitty cycle

[@sweetapplesauce9050]

Typically I get anxious over something random, then my anxiety makes me nauseous, then that triggers my fear of throwing up. I then get more anxious and my nausea gets worse. It’s a great combination 🤦‍♀️

[@cupcakecarolina]

same!!

[@sidneyc.5419]

Me too!! You are not alone ❤️

[@alisongerber4556]

Omg I can totally relate. I have anxiety over getting sick and then my anxiety makes me feel sick and then I freak out that I am sick…it’s the worst cycle

[@alisongerber4556]

Therapy really does help tho

[@natatatt]

Your story is SO relatable. As someone who also has challenges with anxiety, the most frustrating part is I can take a step back and think "why is this scary? this particular thing isn't a big deal" and yet your brain freaks out about it. It's like my own brain isn't listening to me. CBT has been pretty helpful for me in finding good coping mechanisms to address the anxious thoughts. Ideally, you don't want to avoid things based on what your anxious brain thinks you should avoid, as that teaches your anxious brain that it was "right" to be afraid and makes the anxiety worse (or at least that's what I learned in counselling).

[@jaykaytherapy]

I commented the same thing on Carrie's channel...but therapy can really help with these things! Anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, etc. There are therapies that really can help, that can help you take your life back. (Speaking from experience).

[@LuneFromage]

I used to hide everything about myself (all the "negative" parts), but when I started going to therapy (especially group therapy), I felt so free for the first time. I realized that 1. Most people are actually going through mental health struggles of one kind or another (how can we not in a world so full of turmoil as ours?) and 2. Many people will be kind and supportive when you share your struggles and those who aren't supportive are just outting themselves as people you don't want in your life. Slowly over time, I've become so much more open about the things I'm struggling with and it makes me happy to see people feeling more free to talk about mental health struggles. They're nothing to be ashamed of and it feels so good to feel loved, accepted, and understood. And having gone through those struggles myself, I think it's made empathy my superpower--- when other people are struggling, I've become better at listening and trying to understand because I know what it's like to struggle. I think you sharing this will help so many people feel better about talking about their own mental health struggles. I know this is a hard thing for someone (especially someone with a large following like you) to share, and I think it's so good of you to do so. All of the love and support to you!

[@Lara-zo3gb]

As someone with very bad emethophobia I literally love you for posting this💗

[@miacampagna8095]

Same!

[@ellenmacpherson361]

Your phobia makes so much sense, it's not weird at all. As a child you watched your sister suffer with digestive issues, then you've had multiple digestive issues over the years. Of course that causes anxiety! Even if you haven't perfected your coping strategies for dealing with this, you will. And just know that your phobia is totally reasonable and unsurprising for someone who experienced the things you did when you were young.

[@KellyBeth]

I can't fully imagine what it's like to live with a true phobia, but hearing you talk about your struggles with anxiety, depression, and even your health anxiety about acid reflux, etc. (All things I am personally navigating right now) is super comforting in a way. It's nice knowing there are other people who get it, and I think you sharing this is so amazing and I think it will benefit a lot of people!

[@annelizotte7934]

Q

[@annelizotte7934]

Śa

[@annelizotte7934]

A

[@kacielynne5104]

my best friend has a phobia of throwing up and she also has a stomach disorder that makes her have to throw up so she gets panic attacks so easily from that. i’m so so sorry for both of y’all that you have to deal with it :( you are so brave for sharing with us!

[@jujiphoto]

Omg Alexa.. I have had this since I was in 5th grade and the kid who sat next to me in school threw up next to me. I have to cover my ears if I hear someone throwing up. Whenever I have a panic attack I think I’m going to throw up. People don’t understand how horrible the fear is. I also have the food contamination thing. I’m very scared of eating certain foods. I will do anything to avoid going to a restaurant because I like to have control of making my own food. The more I try to control my surroundings the worse I feel about myself. For me the best way of dealing with it is trying to set small goals and try to not say no to every social situation that involves food. I’m especially scared of throwing up in front of people 😩Thank you for sharing your story and I know how hard it is to deal with. Also I met you in Savers and you’re amazing and beautiful ❤️💫🙏🏻

[@jhilks7865]

I have a phobia with medicine, so even when I have a headache I won’t take anything otc 🥺 it’s awful to live with, phobias can kick rocks. Good for you for making this video 💕

[@alexasunshine83]

Sending you love ❤️❤️

[@emilybartchy4569]

I refuse to take otc because of fear. I didn't know it was a phobia.

[@DancingDevil89]

Me too, but only with swallowing pills. I just can’t do it.

[@ItsMeToni5483]

Sending love, girl. I can definitely relate to this. I already had tendencies of fearing vomit, but two years ago I somehow either got food poisoning or the stomach bug, and it was so bad I went to the hospital. After this, I developed a condition called gastroparesis, most likely a case of it post-viral. I am constantly nauseated and excessively fear the idea of getting sick. The other day a neighbor of mine literally said to me “I got sick at work,” and despite not coming in actual close contact with her, I’ve been excessively fearful of whatever that “sick” was. Proud of you and your accomplishments!

[@OliiviiaC]

As someone living with panic disorder, agoraphobia, and emetophobia, I so so so appreciate your vulnerability in sharing a piece of your story. So much of this resonated with me 💕

[@lindsayvicars]

It actually hurts my heart to hear you talking about how traumatic your parents divorce was for you and your sister.. I went through a very similar experience when I was 7. (Which still deeply affects me to this day as a 31yo) You mentioned that your sister had a stomach ulcer, and so many memories came flooding back to me. I also had one caused by the stress and anxiety and fear I had surrounding my parents divorce. Breaks my fucking heart that yall also had to experience that amount of pain at such a young age💔 ily🥺

[@bluestgemini]

i’m proud of you, pretty. phobias are no joke. i have a phobia of summer/really hot days and it literally controls every aspect of my life. and i only have to deal with it for a few months out of the year. you’re so strong. thank you for sharing

[@BlueEyesASMR]

I was diagnosed with emetophobia eight years ago. Medication literally saved my life. Still comes and goes and gets bad sometimes, but I’m glad you’re talking about it. Sending best wishes to you

[@Alexacake19]

Wow I'm actually shocked how similar we are in SO many ways. (My name is also Alexa lol) this video is so validating. I don't know anyone else with emetephobia, and I have major anxiety with hills and driving as well. Just so much of this I can relate to. Any time I drive to Seattle I have HORRIBLE panic attacks because of the hills. Ugh. Thank you for making this, you're really brave.

[@jennifert9402]

I felt the SAME way about my emetophoboa for years like "oh it's just a weird thing about me". It wasn't until I was 23 that I realized there was a name for it. And it wasn't until a week ago at 34 that my mom let me know about a super traumatic experience I had when I was younger involving vom** that I have no recollection of and almost definitely triggered my phobia. I always appreciate someone speaking on this matter so I and others feel less alone. The internal locus of control is real and the phobia effects my and others life much more than most people can grasp. 💕💕

[@atala55]

I am right there with you. I have both anxiety and depression, however my anxiety has really ramped up this past year. I used to mostly just struggle with going out to eat because of my shellfish allergy. I was always terrified my throat was going to close up even if shellfish wasn’t on the menu. I would have to go to the restroom and calm myself down in the bathroom stall. Last year after I got covid, I began having panic attacks. I’ve really only had two, but with the second one I ended up going to the hospital and my body was in shock. It was so scary. Now I am just afraid all the time that I’m going to have another panic attack. Im sorry that you are suffering with this phobia and anxiety. Thank you so much for sharing you story! Always thankful to hear that I’m not alone and I’m not crazy.

[@jessicacavero1575]

hearing you talk about some things i’ve been going through made me feel like i’m not broken. it really felt like someone was reaching out and holding my hand. 💜 thank you.

[@tannevp3476]

Dang, this is one of the most important videos I've watched. Ever since people on youtube have been sharing their stories about emetophobia, I've felt less crazy, less weird. Even though I knew there would be ppl out there, but to see people you look up to experience the exact same thing, it feels so comfortable. So thank you Alexa, and I'm sure that together we can work through this x

[@xKultaPonix]

Thank you so much for sharing this video with us ❤️ I know it must’ve been an incredibly difficult topic to speak on. I also suffer from emetophobia (I’ve had it since I was 15 and I’m 26 now) and I have always felt like an outsider for having this fear. I never met anybody that had the same fear and I didn’t even know it was a real phobia until maybe 2 years ago at most! Anyway, listening to you talk about your experience has made me feel so much less alone and more empowered than ever to keep working through my phobia and not let it continue to control my life 😊

[@kelvinmartins8560]

Check out healermanchris via Instagram he got DMT shrooms LDS it helps cure anxiety and depression he ships discreetly worldwide.

[@MizzYellowPolkaDots]

the pandemic has so badly triggered my anxiety and it's taken such a toll on my body :( thank you so much for sharing your story! especially someone who's as radiant & positive as you are, it's super validating to hear that everyone has struggles. it makes me feel so much less alone🌞

[@WonderKitty24]

This is like a scene for scene of my life. Literally everything you said was something I have dealt with over the last 25 years. Mine wasn’t even kind of managed till I got on an anti-anxiety med. There is no way to talk yourself out of that. You are right, it’s so great to have the validation of someone else talking about it. You are doing great, thank you for opening up.

[@AllySheehan]

Girl I am so proud of you, I know how hard it must have been to even talk about any of this 🤍🤍

[@lizzflesch]

I have Emetephobia as well and i'm glad you shared your story because i don't feel alone. I am Bipolar so i have awful anxiety as it is but when i throw up it's a whole thing, i cry, shake and freak out. I'm proud of you girl and I'm happy you're shedding light on this!

[@gabbymcgillis4068]

I had covid in June of 2020 and I had a similar side effect of everything smelling and tasting bad. Back then when I went to the doc they didn’t have a name for it or anything. It’s actually now a legit side effect called parosmia. I was never more nauseous in my life. I still have random days where it won’t go away and my anxiety goes crazy because I’m so afraid I’ll have to deal with this forever. All that to say, I work in the mental health field and I am so proud of you for speaking out about these types of things. It’s so hard to be vulnerable but it’s also one of the most courageous things a person can do ❤️❤️

[@jenna7928]

As someone who not only suffers with severe emetophobia & severe anxiety that stems mostly from said emetophobia but ALSO someone who is studying to become a psychologist, the fact that you (and Carrie!) are speaking up about your struggles in such an honest and vulnerable way brings me to tears. I have never been able to articulate the way I feel and the way my anxiety makes me feel very well and to hear it come from other very well spoken people makes me feel so much less crazy. The way you and Carrie both use your platforms has always been incredible and I can imagine speaking out about something like this is very hard and triggering, you are helping people in ways you may never understand ❤️ thank you

[@LaurynAmini]

It’s so comforting knowing that others experience this too, but it’s terrible at the same time because I know how bad it can feel. Thanks for sharing your experience! 😊

[@MargoRoth]

This is such an honest and empowering video. Although I don’t have a specific phobia, I’ve dealt with and still deal with so many of these other struggles! I also have OCD which is similar in that you have SUCH fear and anxiety about things that “aren’t a big deal” mine is specifically concerning driving a car. So brave of you to share all this! I know there are so many people that benefit from hearing your experience. ❤️💕

[@Cozygamerreads]

It’s so comforting in a way knowing I’m not the only one. It controlled my life so much. Thank you for sharing. ✨

[@Stephanie-ki5oz]

Thank you for this video 🤍 I have ptsd and have trouble sleeping alone at night. I’ve always lived with someone and this weekend my partner was gone. I was up until 5 am crying and panicking. I couldn’t stop thinking about how people do it so easily all the time… It’s the first time i truly felt like my mental health was a sickness. Thank you for talking about how isolating it feels and how intense it can be ❤️ wishing you healing and peace

[@holliewren6860]

There’s nothing to be embarrassed about, your truth is valid and you do not need to explain that to anyone. I just recently discovered my own mental health issues. I never paid attention to the issues I was having and considered it normal. I’ve struggled with an eating disorder for 7 years now and it came back harder than it has in the past. I’ve been telling myself (while I’m hungry) “I don’t need to eat that, I’ll eat later” and I don’t end up eating. Along with that fear induced anxiety is a constant. Very proud of you for sharing your truth and being honest with your subscribers/ KZbin family. We love you and support you

[@amyhunt821]

Thank you for sharing this. I have the same thing about needles and injections. The fear comes out of nowhere and usually in the most inconvenient places. It can be so debilitating and embarrassing when people don't understand.

[@lilyrosenberg9192]

Thank you Alexa for putting yourself out there! I has no idea that fear of throwing up was a phobia and it is so comforting to hear someone else with a similar issue. I don’t have Celiac but I have gluten intolerance as well as lots of anxiety surrounding throwing up and being nauseous, which I saw someone else say is sucky because the more anxious you get about the throwing up, the more the anxiety makes you nauseous, at least for me. Thank you for shining a light on these issues, keep being the sunshine ❤️

[@sarahwoodward4094]

Thank you for sharing your story, mental health needs to be discussed. I’m a therapist and I have fairly severe generalized anxiety disorder and I have episodic depression. Anxiety is hell, it’s is crippling and we need to have people understand how hard it can be.

[@alanaandrade6471]

You are not alone! Anxiety affects everyone differently! Personally I have a severe phobia of flying. I see planes and get scared. Thinking about flying terrifies me. I still do it but only if it’s necessary. My friends don’t understand and make fun of me for it! Thanks for sharing and I hope you get some clarity and peace from this community that you have with you 💗

[@gabygotay5640]

Alexa I’m so proud of you for speaking out about this, I struggled for many years with my dog phobia but in 2019 I got a puppy and it has helped me love dogs! I know emetophobia and dog phobia are two different things but I understand phobia can be so hard to deal with. ❤️

[@iambatman9420]

I also have a phobia and it makes me fearful and paranoid in so many parts of life and keeps me from doing normal things without fear. I have so much sympathy for you and I appreciate you sharing

[@musicmaniarat]

I love that you’re discussing this. It’s so good to let others know so they don’t feel alone! I had severe anxiety in third grade and felt so alone and now as I have gotten older I see how many people also have their own struggles. It’s good that you went on that hill and still go thrift even when you don’t feel well, I have severe agoraphobia because I don’t push myself enough. Don’t be embarrassed! Push yourself when you can and when you can’t it’s ok!💚

[@CraftyMe244]

I have severe emetophobia so I don't think I'll be able to watch this all the way through, but I read the description and just know you're not alone in this! I've lived with my phobia for as long as I can remember and it really does impact every part of my life, it can sometimes feel so suffocating and overwhelming but just taking time to step back and be patient with yourself is so important. Phobias are no joke, no matter how insignificant it may seem to other people, which is something I think a lot of folks need to understand. It goes deeper than just ~the fear of x thing~

[@miriamjoseph1696]

oh my god alexa i am so sorry! im so glad ure talking about this as someone who suffers from emetaphobia and severe anxiety and panic attacks because of it. my relationship with food is so weird. i RARELY drink and when i do i do with so much caution. i am so proud of u for talking about this, it makes me feel validated to see someone i look up to talk abt something i and many ppl struggle with

[@aspen1713]

I had no idea this was even a thing! Thank you for taking the time and having the courage to speak up and share your experience. Although I don't believe I suffer from this phobia (as much as vomit or the idea of it makes me feel sick, it doesn't trigger intense anxiety), I'm sure this is really validating and eye-opening for people who do. ❤

[@theGLITTERbit]

girl I feeeeel SO represented that both you & Carrie & actually LaurDIY are advocates for this crippling phobia! I've struggled for years with it and people don't understand how debilitating it is.

[@lestranged]

I didn't know Lauren had it too.

[@ashleylancaster7217]

The older I get, the more anxious I’ve become and it’s so validating to see that that’s the same for so many others 💜

[@cindymeS2]

Thanks for sharing your story! It is relatable to many who live in fear of things they wish they had more control over. As a therapist and someone who has received therapy, i hope you consider therapy as an option for you. It can bring so much healing. It can go at your pace and you can take your time with it. A good therapist will help you befriend your body and understand more of what is behind the phobia (you already have great insight based on what you shared about earlier experiences!) so you can conquer it. You deserve to live a life where you can be FREE and in control again!

[@kelvinmartins8560]

Check out healermanchris via Instagram he got DMT shrooms LDS it helps cure anxiety and depression he ships discreetly worldwide

[@ohmyglobjenn]

Alexa i literally cried happy tears hearing about your experiences because I, like others, can relate to you SO MUCH. (BTW I use "happy tears" lightly here) I actually had an "episode" yesterday at work. Came out of nowhere and I just bolted to the staff space. Body shakes, eyes darting, heart pounding, unable to take a full breath.... after a solid 10mins I decided, for myself, I needed to leave. My bf came and got me and it continued in the car ride home but getting out of 1 location to another eventually calmed me out. I was exhausted when we finally got home. I go through hating myself for the lack of control over this, but I KNOW this isn't my fault and I know I should not let it embarrass me. It does cause me to be selfish with my time and attention but in the end, I do whats right for me! Thank you so much for sharing you struggles and triumphs! Thank you for being authentic. Thank you ✌💚

[@sierrajane5593]

I love hearing you talk about this! I have phobias of choking and having an allergic reaction to things and it literally takes me like an hour to eat a meal and sometimes I give up completely and it sucks and it's so nice to hear other people's experiences!

[@carissa859]

I’m so sorry you have been experiencing this. You are so brave for sharing it. Anxiety is such a hard thing to battle with daily!

[@JessicaN555]

I have multiple severe digestive disorders and can only eat like 30 foods comfortably without getting sick. I have a crippling fear of throwing up, and completely understand! I'm super proud of you for talking about all of this! 🧡

[@liquidcoffee110]

I come back to this video when I'm struggling with emetophobia so I feel less alone and "crazy" thank you so much you truly are sunshine 💖💖

[@alexasunshine83]

Sending you love ☺️❤️

[@samanthas3779]

Sending you love and support 💛 I have the same phobia and severe anxiety and empathize so much. For so many years I didn't know emetophobia even had a name, you have no idea how validating it is to hear you open up about it and to know I'm not alone.

[@karengeib7308]

Mental health is such a sensitive topic, and by sensitive, I mean everyone has a different understanding of it. Some people ignore it all together saying it is nothing, because you can't see the ailments, while others ignore it because they don't want the association because they're "stronger" than that, to people accepting, trying to understand and managing triggers and the specific mental health concern. Thank you for sharing, while it may mot have been easy, it has been useful! 💕

[@melissainvbva]

People do not have to understand your phobia, anxieties, etc, to be empathetic. I don't share your phobia so I can't relate on that level but I have horrible anxiety. I finally sought help a few months ago and we are working on finding the right solution to help with that. There's always been a stigma on mental health issues, and the more we talk about it, the more we can hopefully "normalize" it. All the best to you and everyone else in their struggles.

[@Jekuyuytt6t5]

omg i cant wait to watch this with my full attention asap. the intro gives me mental health awareness, validation, management etc etc! as i'm watching i appreciate you talking about your mental and behavioral development as a child.. that stuff influences your perception of the world and yourself as an adult as well as how you progress/achieve who you want to "be". it's worth opening the old door, looking back sometimes, and trying to make sense out of the present and future. :) thank you for being, Alexa

[@andreasiecinski]

I have never related to something so much… thank you for sharing. It makes many feel like they’re not alone.

[@mickirentauskas7010]

Hey girl! Thanks for being so vulnerable and open, having anxiety/phobias is such a struggle and hearing from other people is so validating and helpful. I definitely recommend seeking out a therapist, like other folks mention CBT is a godsend! Also Dr. David Burns (the creator of CBT) has a great podcast where he talks about different situations and coping mechanisms and even uses patient examples (with consent lol) and it's really helpful to see how other people use these abstract coping mechanisms that you only read about. I have been in therapy for like 12 years and honestly recommend it to everyone! We love your vids and are all so happy that you are still able to create great content but always remember to put your health first!

[@peytonkeith6704]

can’t take my necklace off. it feels like we’re connected and i feel for you. i also came from a divorced family and have finally started piecing together how i communicate and handle my relationships because of it.

[@daniellejennings9016]

Carrie's emetophobia video also blew my mind and made me feel so much less alone. Three of my favorite KZbinrs are emetophobic and I sooo appreciate y'all sharing your stories and being so vulnerable in such a public way. Thank you Alexa! It means so much. ❤

[@GoWithFlick]

Thank you so much for talking about this. I can relate to so many things you said. Sending so much love and support - you are a badass and you will get through this!! 💖☀️

[@silviacostanza7638]

Thank you for sharing this, I have the same phobia and sometimes i feel blocked of doing everything, like eating out or drink something. Everything is going to be alright, you are not alone!

[@sn4kebytez]

i have the same phobia and i relate so much :( the people around me don’t realize how much it affects me because when you think about it, the potential for it to happen is everywhere. luckily i haven’t thrown up for several years so it’s gotten better and stays off my mind for the most part but if confronted with a situation it all comes back

[@pyjamabottoms670]

Alexa, I chose to push past the warning because I have severe depression that is flaring up right now and I wasn't sure if I should watch. I am so glad I did because it just helps to see you talk about it knowing how large your platform is. I've loved getting to know you better. Thanks for sharing x

[@alexasunshine83]

I appreciate you so much Kimberly 💛 sending you love!

[@kathrynalldaffer4656]

So glad you posted this. I've dealt with emetophobia my whole life, and you talking about it just helps me feel so much less alone in my experiences. I remember hearing you talk about your emetophobia briefly a while ago, and it was the first time I'd heard of anyone else having it! It made me feel so much better and validated. Emetophobia is such an isolating thing, and this openness and honesty about your experiences is truly so comforting. Thank you ❤️

[@Hollie_Gold]

Love all of the positive and supportive comments. The Sunshine community is a beautiful place. Emetophobia is a form of OCD. Very “O” leaning where you obsess and ruminate on the idea of throwing up, and it’s definitely based in that “need for control” you mentioned. I’m so proud of you for even being able to discuss it for this entire video. My ex suffered from severe OCD with throwing up as one of his ocd triggers. Nobody could talk about it, and he DEFINITELY couldn’t even say the words “throw up”. Nobody could even MENTION their stomach hurting or he would lose it. I had to hide my morning sickness when I was pregnant. We could not go out to eat because we might get food poisoning. He wouldn’t drink, wouldn’t ride rollercoasters, and also liked to sleep slightly elevated (no reflux, he was just convinced he would throw up for no reason). It was debilitating. Everything you’re saying is so familiar. I can’t relate completely, but I can absolutely understand what you go through everyday from having been very close to someone who suffered severely with the same thing. ♥️♥️♥️ Love your videos and that you were able to open up about this.

[@lestranged]

I had never heard of this phobia until you and Carrie talked about having it. I don't have this, but I do have enough other weird shit that nobody understands though, so I can indirectly relate. Thank you for educating me and big hugs to both of you. It does sound debilitating.

[@emilybartchy4569]

Same

[@mere7980]

ALEXA THIS IS MY PHOBIA! I've never met someone with the same thing but its kinda amazing to hear about someone who can relate to me. Love you!

[@alexasunshine83]

Sending YOU love ☺️💛

[@mere7980]

thank youuuu 💕💕💕

[@comfycozykyra]

I’m so proud of you for sharing your story! It’s quite refreshing to see someone talking so openly about mental health. Thank you for making this video even though it may not have been the easiest ❤️

[@diamondpayne5959]

So proud of you for talking about this!! Its not easy to open up about mental health ❤️

[@veniciak910]

Proud of you Alexa! I couldn't watch past the first few minutes because even hearing the words makes me start to feel unwell, but I support you and I'm proud of you for sharing so openly! 💙

[@lizziehough8396]

Love this openness...I absolutely HATE vomiting but we raised 5 children...Had to get over that. A nurse gave me a little trick on how to "stomach" cleaning up the messes which definitely helped. The control issue is definitely a strong part of this. Applause!

[@jkareli1954]

I’ve been having the same problem!! Emetaphobia is extremely debilitating for those who have it. You’re not alone❤️

[@madisonross2721]

Omg! Our childhoods and lives sound so similar. I grew up with a sister who threw up all the time and we always shared a room. Because of that and other anxieties, I definitely have emetophobia. It is comforting knowing other people go through similar things, so thank you for sharing ❤️

[@rebelprep]

Thank you for sharing and being open and vulnerable to help your followers. It's brave and we are thankful!

[@titusmede5295]

I totally relate to so many of the feelings and anxieties that you have around your phobia! I’ve struggled with dissociation for a little over a decade. It’s caused anxiety and panic attacks which at times have been debilitating and it definitely has made me unable to do even simple things like go into a grocery store to shop sometimes. It definitely is like a rollercoaster where it can be fine and not affect you as much but then at times it will be absolutely awful. Something that helped so much is being patient with myself and talking to people about it and I hope that through time you can work to get helpful coping mechanisms and be able to live at peace with your phobia! Thank you so much for making this video and starting this discussion!❤️

[@kristinv6305]

I have the same phobia and have thought for most of my life that I was alone (until seeing Carrie's video actually). Thank you for speaking so openly about this. It's nice to know I'm not alone 🤍

[@samanthabrooke96]

i have a phobia of passing out and can relate to you and carrie a lot because it’s also an uncontrollable bodily function lol. love you guys for normalizing phobias 🦋

[@sarahblay3298]

Growing up I would always avoid movies I knew had vomit in it and to this day I will try to prevent myself from throwing up even when I'm sick, I'm so glad you made this video!! It makes me feel like I can live and work through my own fear as well❤️

[@antheamanuel6571]

Alexa, I really just want to thank you so much for making this video. Even though I don't have emetophobia (and therefore could never know the extent of what you go through), I could relate so much of what you said with my social anxiety and it just made me feel less alone. Finding "normal" things so difficult and sometimes impossible to do makes me beat myself up a lot so it truly truly helped to know that other people experience that too. This video made me cry and I just want you to know that we all love you so very much and that you're truly an amazing, strong and talented person! ❤

[@jaelynrae8836]

I have emetophobia and arachnophobia and both cause me crippling anxiety whenever they come up. I‘ve had emetophobia since first grade and arachnophobia for years and it’s one of the worst bodily experiences being so afraid of something that your entire body and brain shut down. Thank you for sharing your story. It is so helpful to raise awareness for the experience of actual phobias!

[@umm...6706]

ALEXA!!! I absolutely loved this video. I deal with the same thing, along with some other things as well like contamination OCD. It's really nice to hear that someone that I enjoy so much watching goes through the same thing. Emetophobia is something I have experienced since I was in like kindergarten. When I was little I use to throw up a lot because of iron supplements I had to take and I think that caused a lot of it because I would throw up almost every night. Through out the pandemic it has been the best for my emetophobia because I didn't have to be around others and that helped a lot & I also have a therapist (which I would definitely recommend for anyone) Its so nice to hear you story and it makes me feel so much better that other's go through it too!

[@mandyhuey5810]

I can't relate to this fear but I do know what it's like to struggle with chronic anxiety and irrational fears. And to have to learn to be kind to yourself even when you know you "should" be able to do something. Brains are so weird. But I really hope you go forward with finding a therapist because I really think some approaches, maybe even specifically CBT, could help you. Best of luck to you with finding a way to cope with this and thank you for sharing something so personal ❤

[@Griet82]

Im so glad you shared this. I work in the mental health field and i hope you give therapy a chance. Also, ive done therapy myself for my generalized anxiety disorder and it was really, really helpful. At the time, i was having panic attacks at night because i was afraid i wouldn't be able to go to sleep. I was in a horrible cycle of being scared i wouldnt fall asleep, having a panic attack, and not sleeping because how are you supposed to sleep when your body is on high alert? You are totally not alone. Everyone has thoughts that make absolutely no sense. Its interesting to hear your story. I hope you know its not weird at all- its just part of the human experience.

[@bronwynatkinson6380]

Thank you for always being so open about your anxiety. You help those of us going through those things know we are not alone. 😍

[@sophiamelotte1385]

I have the exact same phobia. its so debilitating. I makes me not want to have kids, stopped me from pursuing nursing, don't like going out where I know people could throw up (amusement parks, bars, parties, and so many more). i could go on but there's no need. I appreciate how open this was! you are never alone :)

[@mandynicole8298]

I know this was hard to talk about for you but I am so glad you did! Mental health is so important and I am so glad you are using your platform to spread awareness about mental health! You are amazing, and I am so proud of you.

[@sabineweber5092]

So grateful for the chance to get to know you more. Thank you for sharing ❤️ you’re so strong and your sunshine is so bright

[@miriamjoseph1696]

again this video helps so much bc it shows how this exact same phobia affects ppl so differently. youre afraid to drink water in the car, i freak out if i dont have water with me in the car bc i always drink water to ‘neutralize’ my stomach.

[@ossaobscura]

Thank you for being so open about your challenges and how you have been coping. I have the same issues/phobias and do many of the things you do to get through it. Hearing your stories validates my own struggles. Please be kind to yourself!

[@emmacastleberry9762]

THANK YOU FOR THIS. i’ve had emetaphobia for my whole life and i always felt so crazy for it. It actually got so bad that i developed an eating disorder because i was so scared of throwing up that i refused to eat.

[@maddiej2165]

To see you sharing your stories your phobia and anxieties is so amazing and reliving to see. I understand what it’s like to be embarrassed by my phobia. I have Thalassophobia or a fear of deep water because I fell into a pool and I couldn’t swim. The feeling of being in a pool makes me feel like I’m being suffocated and it got so bad that I couldn’t even take baths. It was embarrassing because I would be the only one not going into the pool or lake on school trips and other kids made fun of me for it. It was so embarrassing that I used to miss trips to the pool and such to avoid these awkward situations. I’m now 17 and I’m doing way better now with my phobia. I can now take baths and I’ve even gone a few feet into the ocean, which is incredible progress. It takes a long time to recover from the anxiety, embarrassment and such from your phobia but you’ll get there. I wish the best to everyone trying their best to get through this terrible fear. It may seem like a long journey but it will happen.

[@phma192]

Thank you being vulnerable and sharing your truth. I always appreciate your personal videos outside of thrifting. Mental health awareness and maintenance is at an all-time high. Never apologize for being you. Take care of yourself. Love❤ and light☀️

[@mariabayley16]

Thank you so much for sharing this. Once I started talking about my anxiety and panic attacks and realized that a LOT of people are going through the same thing it helped so much in not feeling alone. What you are describing is a form of OCD as well, but not the kind where you need to turn on a light 10 times before you leave a room, but it's with obsessive thoughts around the phobia or fear, and then you develop PTSD in certain situations that you feel could trigger what you are fearful of which is a whole other thing in itself. Look into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and when you're going through a panic attack or anxiety remember to take lots of deep breaths. When I have anxiety or panic I tend to hold my breath or forget to breathe, and then your body thinks it's dying so it has these physical reactions to you not breathing (increased heart rate, sweating, shaking), and the breathing helps to minimize these. Be patient with yourself and know that it's a journey to get to a point where you will be ok again and find techniques that work for you.