I hate elevators because of a reoccurring dream

Ever since I was in elementary school, I've had nightmares of malfunctioning elevators. They rise so fast I'm pressed to the floor, they drop with such speed that I'm lifted into the air, and they don't fully stop at the floors (either they're too low when the doors open or they're too high). I have never had any negative experiences with elevators. I loved them as a child. For the past few years, however, the fear of my nightmare elevator has become a fear of elevators in real life. I silently freak out each time I'm in one. I press myself into a corner, cling to the handrails until my knuckles turn white, and run out when I reach my floor. I still ride elevators, since they're convenient, my family and friends prefer to use them, and I tend to end up on crutches about once a year. Is it normal to have a fear that started in a dream?

I also feel I should tell you that I like drop towers for the way they scare me. My favorite is the tower of terror, and I usually end up having a little panic attack in the queue. (Incase you don't know, the tower of terror is an elevator themed drop tower. I was afraid of elevators before riding this.) Is it normal that I love the fear and the adrenaline rush I get from riding something themed after one of my worst fears?

Voting Results
86% Normal
Based on 28 votes (24 yes)
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Comments ( 6 )
  • Fatgurlwannabe

    Hon it's totally normal to enjoy the adrenaline rush of being dropped! It's probably because you KNOW that it's pretty dang safe subconciously. I'm the same way at Six Flags before getting on the Mendusa i ALWAYS have a small panic attack but I calm down since i KNOW it's safe! I'm also deathly afraid of elevators and it gets worse with each floor I rise. Don't worry the likely hood of something happening is extremely small.

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  • 800imawesome

    Uggghhh... that death in final destination is sick...

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  • Linds07

    I used to be terrified of elevators up until this last year. Try riding an elevator over and over while concentrating on your breathing. This really helped me and now I have absolutely no fear of riding them anymore :)

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  • Who_Fan4Life

    "Love In An Elevator
    Livin' it up when I'm goin' down
    Love In An Elevator
    Lovin' it up till I hit the ground"

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  • AngAnders112

    normal! a few years ago, a man was decapitated by an elevator that he attempted to enter while the doors were closing. the sensors did not work; the doors closed around his neck and he was decapitated as it rose. i've always been weary of elevators because of the closed, small spaces, but after reading that story, i made a commitment to myself that i will not use elevators unless i need to go up more than 7 stories or i'm physically unable to climb stairs. besides, using the stairs is a healthier option (unless you fall down/up them.)

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  • So normal !

    I used to be terrified of Fair rides, but going on them gives me a crazy adrenaline rush , and I LOVE it .

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