I felt the exact same way about getting in to an HBO chamber. I convinced myself that I couldn't do it because I too have anxieties and major claustrophobia. If it ends up being the recommendation for you try not to sweat it. I believe most chambers are see-thru like the one I was in which makes it so much better! My nurse never left the room. I could see her the whole time. I took two xanaxs for anxiety for my first dive. After that I went down to just one Xanax to help me sleep, which I did for almost every dive. If I didn't sleep, I watched an hour and 1/2 of TV shows. Hope this helps.