What is the best way to swallow a pill?

What is the best way to swallow a pill?
can you crush them? if so, swallow with water, not soda.
Now, I'm a teenager and I have so many issues swallowing pills.

I mean, I eventually, DO get it down. Sometimes on the first try, sometimes on the fifth try. Earlier today, trying to take some medicine I was sure I was going to get it down. Next thing I know I forget how to swallow (Stupid, right?), and I'm spitting Diet Coke all over my computer screen. Irony, it actually went down while I was spitting my beverage out.

Now, I have to take big pills, which I am NOT used to. I usually can't take anything bigger than a Midol. Now, I have these pills as big as the tip of my ring finger.

So, can anyone give suggestions on how I can swallow pills easier? Also, some relaxation methods would be greatly appreciated.
Yeah, this is going to sound kind of dumb...
But, I have no tolerance for water. I've hated it since I was young, if I drink any of it, it would immediately make me gag and throw up.

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