My new problem is that I've been getting into bodyboarding, but during bigger surf my anxiety levels get HUGE, to the point where halfway during the paddle out I turn around and come back to shore because I start getting so anxious and feel like I'm going to have a panic attack.

I swim 2-3 times a week and am in relatively good shape, so I doubt it has anything to do with my physical fitness level. I think it's mostly just me being a mental nutcase. I've always had at least a small fear of swimming, especially in the ocean where the conditions are always changing and unpredictable.

Is there any way to gradually overcome this fear?

Therapy or a med perhaps, or take a benzol before you go surfing, but be careful since benzol can make you sleepy. :bouncing: