Thank you for reaching out to us. We appreciate the sensitive nature of this question.
Fear of water can be very debilitating in the context of mikveh observance. We hope you are able to pursue therapy to help you overcome this fear.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is generally the recommended treatment for phobias. This would be a gradual process where you work with your therapist to build confidence to the point where you feel safe immersing.
Here are some practical steps that might help you immerse:
- You can dip in the mikveh only once, even if your custom would normally be to dip multiple times. (If you follow Ashkenazi customs, you should recite the bracha after the immersion.)
- It is permissible to keep your feet on the ground and to lean lightly against the mikveh wall when you immerse.
- It is permissible to immerse while touching the wall or holding on to a railing under the water, with as light a grip as is comfortable for you.
- You could immerse with one or two women accompanying you into the water. In this case, you could wear a very loose long t-shirt. They could hold and support you, or you could hold onto them for support. The area of contact should be wet with mikveh water before the immersion (i.e., you and the woman or women supporting should first dip hands in the mikveh).
Please don't hesitate to get back to us to follow up. Another organization that might be helpful to you is
Maaglei Nefesh, which provides guidance and support on matters of mental health and halacha. A directory of religious therapists is available through
Nefesh: The International Network of Orthodox Mental Health Professionals.
This response was updated on 25 September, 2025.
