My wife is very claustrophobic. It took a lot of time to get her to even try snorkling. My son is the same way. Neither are able to get past the feeling of the water closing in around them. I have seen alot of people able to get over it with the proper training, but I would really be sure that you can by maybe working in a pool alot before you commit yourself to the open water. Panic is the worst thing that can happen at depth. I would think that by working in the pool you should be able to overcome your fear. If you have to close your eyes until you are under the water I am not sure that is to good a thing and should be overcome before you venture any further, for your own safety.