Flying?!

[annastack]

Hello, I'm due to fly to Iceland on the 25th Jan for a weekend away to see the Northern Lights. I'm already starting to feel anxious about the flight which is ridiculous because I've flown probably 30 times before (some 12 hour ones) and never ever been worried about it before now! Really need to nip this in the bud because I don't want to end up having a panic attack on the flight. Any advice / tips? X

[annastack]

Should also mention the flight is 2.5 hours long! X

[alankay]

I always take valium for flights. I tried going without but what a nasty thing(the panic). If you have any type of benzo, keep it on hand. Are you on an ssri? They seem to lessen the panic attacks severity or even block them. Also the anticipatory anxiety can often be worse than the real event. If you go with friends that will help as well. Alankay

[annastack]

I'm going with my boyfriend who is very supportive. I will be okay until the doors close and then the panic sets in! It's a 2.5 hour flight so I'm already trying to think of things to do to fill the time. The only medication I'm on is propranolol.

[alankay]

Well that should help. I'm the same way, when the door shuts, I know right there how it will be. We all know it's stupid but that the way I feel. They call is Panic Disorder with Agorophobia(to some degree it varies) and millions have it. Flying is one of the top fears out there. :( Alankay

[AnxietyInstituteSA]

There are many people who are prescribed medication just for use when flying. That might be a something you should consider.

If you're against medication or are just looking for other options, I would look into deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation techniques to do periodically during the flight. You can google these terms and print out some scripts to work on during the flight.

You might also want to bring a plethora of distracting activities ready: cross-word puzzles, books, sudoku, magazines, movies, yummy snacks, etc.

You might consider writing yourself some words of encouragement (I know you're feeling really anxious right now, but remember, you'll get through this, anxiety can't hurt you, etc.)

If you're traveling with anyone else, you may want to inform them of your condition and the possibility of an episode. You may want to give them advice on how to handle it if that situation occurs (talk to me about something distracting, leave me to myself, hold my hand, etc.)

Good luck!

[laurandisorder]

I'm a really nervous flyer - it hasn't always been this way and I try not to let it stop me from going to amazing places.

I do use Valium when I fly - it just takes the edge off that anticipatory anxiety and once I get in the plane, I'm fine. If you're really getting worked up go and see your GP for a script. It will give you peace of mind just to have a pill handy if you need it.

I also use rescue remedy gum when I fly. It doesn't taste the best and doesn't last long in terms of chewiness, but I find it very soothing.

Good luck on your flights. You are going to see one of nature's most amazing shows. You'll forget all about the nerves once you get there!

[anxiousweirdo]

I'm the exact same! I have flew about 20 times Before and never once worried and then anxiety struck! For me it's not being to get out when I want I feel the same on trains aswell! Anxiety sucks!!!! I hope ur ok on ur flight though! Just remember you can do it!!!!

[annastack]

Hi guys,


Just thought I would let you know I made it through my flight! I downloaded some television programmes to watch during the flight and sat on the aisle seat so I couldn't see out the window and I survived!! I know for next time now to prepare x

[omoplata]

Aisle seats are a must for me. One time I was stuck in a middle seat and I swear if that flight was 5 minutes longer I would have kicked open the door!!

[annastack]

Haha that's what I was worried I might do if I had had a panic attack x