a&w restaurant: They take the stairs and take 5 minute intervals at each landing. Plus cold water. No that was just a guess but if i was claustophobic that's what i'd do, it'd take an hour or more to get to the top but i would have achieved a big feat.|||They suck it up or they dont go that high anyway.Many claustrophobics are not that claustrophobic that it interferes with their normal daily life. They do things like listening to music or counting the floors to distract themselves from their fear. I dont like elevators but i still ride in them.They suffocate me especially the really small ones.|||At least your not acrophobic, maybe that can give you enough courage to go up in the lift.|||Breathe deeply,remember that the elevator is not getting any smaller,and focus on the numbers of the floors.Count them aloud as you go up if you have to.Or perhaps take an I-Pod and listen to whatever music distracts or soothes you.|||Use the steps ? Best Wishes. Mars Mission Soon In A Galaxy Near Yours.. Source(s): Studies.