Emetophobia and Me — The Memoir Changing How We Talk About Anxiety
Readers across the world are finding themselves unexpectedly moved by Emetophobia and Me, Jess Smith’s intimate and illuminating memoir about living with, and ultimately freeing herself from, the grip of emetophobia (the fear of vomiting or seeing people vomit).
A book that began as a recounting of the author’s story of fear, it has quickly become something larger: a lifeline for anyone who has ever felt ruled by anxiety, misunderstood by others, or cut off from their own sense of peace.
Hailed by readers as “profoundly moving” and “disarmingly honest,” this book goes way beyond being about emetophobia. It’s about the universal experience of living with fearand the possibility of stepping beyond it.
As conversations about mental health continue to evolve, Emetophobia and Me stands out as both a brave personal story and a universal guide to reclaiming peace. For those who have lived quietly under the weight of anxiety, Jess Smith’s words offer something rare, not just understanding, but a way forward.
If you’ve ever rearranged your whole life to avoid getting sick — you’re not alone.
For years, Jess Smith lived in the shadow of emetophobia — the all-consuming fear of vomiting. It dictated what she ate, where she went, and how she showed up in the world. It shaped her relationships, her motherhood journey, and even her sense of identity.
From a frightened five-year-old avoiding school dinners, to a young mother lining the room with towels just in case, Jess carried a secret terror that no one seemed to understand. She tried to hide it. She tried to fight it. But the fear always followed… until she discovered something that changed everything.
In this raw, compassionate, and surprisingly uplifting memoir, Jess invites you into her journey — the dark moments, the awkward coping strategies, the guilt and shame, and the life-changing insights that allowed her to finally loosen fear’s grip.
You’ll discover:
- Why emetophobia isn’t really about being sick at all.
- How anxiety wires itself into your daily life — and how to begin unwiring it.
- The surprising truth that set Jess free (and can help you, too).
- Powerful, heart-centred reminders that you are not broken — and you are never alone.
Whether you live with emetophobia, general anxiety, panic disorder, or a fear you can’t quite name, Emetophobia and Me is a comforting hand to hold and a guide toward peace, self-trust, and freedom.
You are not afraid of what you think you are. You are afraid of what you think.
It’s time to see the truth — and take your life back.
With a host of five star reviews, Amazon readers say:
“Jess Smith’s memoir is a stunning example of resilience and hope. With unflinching candour, she lays bare her struggles with emetophobia, inviting readers into the darkest moments and most tender breakthroughs. This book is both a practical guide for managing anxiety and a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for growth and transformation.” – Tishanae Brown
“I’m so grateful for Jess Smith’s courageous and relatable memoir, which has given me hope and comfort in my own struggle with emetophobia. Her honest and heartfelt account of living with this often-misunderstood phobia has helped me feel less alone and more empowered to face my fears. This inspiring book is a must-read for anyone affected by emetophobia, offering a powerful reminder that freedom from fear is possible.” – Sakera Clarke
“A truly wonderful easy read. I resonated within my own journey, making me realise I’ve never been broken and how our thoughts take over us. Jess transcribes simple advice leaving you reflecting on a much deeper level. Great short read highly recommended.” – Emily
“This book is a truly inspirational account of the author’s experiences with emetophobia. Jess’ ability to capture all of the feelings and fears I’ve silently struggled with made me feel seen and understood. I cannot recommend this book enough and can’t wait to read some of her other novels.” – Elysia Walters
Independently published, Emetophobia and Me – My Journey Through Fear to Freedom is available to purchase in hardcover (ISBN No: 979-8297477957) priced £14.99, paperback (ISBN No: 979-8297477957) priced £8.99 and Kindle format (£2.99) on Amazon at https://tinyurl.com/3jduxemk / https://tinyurl.com/yf5udvab and https://tinyurl.com/yc7apdmk
It is also available to purchase on Amazon.com