Figure out what you will do if you are outdoors or in a car during the storm. You can pull your car into a parking lot or onto the side of the road if it starts to storm. A car is usually safe to be in during a thunderstorm.
You also can watch videos of storms. However, you should wait until the sounds of storms do not make you overly upset. Don’t get frustrated if you don’t get used to them immediately, or you see no change the next time there’s a storm. It takes awhile to desensitize yourself to something you are afraid of.
For example, you can use smaller blankets, stay in the living room instead of hiding in your room, or leave the door open when you’re in the closet. Do this slowly because you won’t be able to get rid of everything at once. If you need, have someone sit with you as you use fewer safety items.
If you decide to expose yourself to a storm, ask a family member or friend to be with you and help you through it.
Look for psychologists or therapists in your area that deal with phobias. Try calling their offices to find out if they can help with your fear of thunderstorms.
Make your mantra something happy and calming. For example, if you like dogs, make your mantra something like, “Cute puppies on the grass. ”
For example, you can breathe in for a count of five to seven, hold the breath for four counts, and then exhale for a count of five.
For example, you may think that the thunder is going to hurt you and that lightning is going to kill you. When you are in a storm, tell yourself, “These thoughts are negative and false. Thunder is just sound. It cannot hurt me. I am safe in my house. Lightning cannot get me right here. ”
Find a place where you feel comfortable to do something like reading a book, playing a board game, or watching TV.
Learn what causes lightning and the sound of thunder, and learn about how lightning strikes occur.
Remember, storms may be slightly worse or less severe when they reach your area. Preparing yourself for the storm can help you face any storm that comes. Often, red and yellow areas on a radar just mean heavy rain and don’t necessarily mean terrible lightning and thunder.
