Surfing Waves

Hi! I used to surf all the time but moved away to the city to study. I still surf a couple of times every 1-2months, which is not a lot, i miss it so much. But anyway during Christmas my leash came off in solid size swell and I panicked as I had to swim to shore without the board. I'm wondering how to get my confidence back and stop this situation from happening again in the future?
Today there were messy waves, I could physically get out back ok but then mentally I just kept thinking about my leash coming off. If i wiped out, I would assume my leash had come off, its a horrible feeling. I feel very comfortable in the water, apart from this issue.
please help!!!
thanks

Sorry Iona, your post makes me wonder how many people depend on their legropes( leash) as a life saving device and can't swim very well.
One thing about a surf spot there is also quite often the option of being able to bodysurf in as well, most times.
Surfing is about being able to deal with the surf you choose to go out in, most longtime surfers have had a number of close calls but have survived because of their water skills.
Treat yourself gently and begin a progression of get out in slightly more challenging surf as it comes up, spend some time bodysurfing and swimming under safe circumstances but with gradually increasing challenge.

Hi iona, welcome to Surfing Waves!
Your confidence has taken a knock, but you'll soon get it back. You were able to swim back to shore without your board, which shows that you were sufficiently prepared.
Your leash could come off or snap at any time, it's just one of those things. It won't happen very often, and it sounds like it's the first time it has happened to you. All you can do is make sure that you properly secure it before you paddle out, and if you don't have one already, consider buying a leash with velcro that doubles up on the ankle strap.