Flying Anxiety

[MollyM94]

Hi
I really need help/advice.
I’m terrified of flying. TERRIFIED. It’s been my biggest fear since having panic disorder.
I’m scared of both having a panic attack on the plane / feeling trapped and of the obvious fear of a plane crash.
For my job I need to go on three flights this summer. And I don’t know how I’m going to do it.
ANY ADVICE PLEASE

 

[triceps]

Hi MollyM. Not sure how to help you as many people without anxiety have a huge fear of flying. However I'd like to let you know that I did have a panic attack on a plane. It's not as bad as you think. I just told the person next to me that I was having a panic attack and don't worry about it. They asked if they could help, I said no thanks , continued with taking deep breaths and wiped my brow when it was over. So, if you can, cut back on the panic attack obsessing as it isn't as horrible as you'd think. I've told my surrounding passengers that I had panic disorder and what to do if I have one. Of course, the one time I had the panic attack I hadn't said anything.

 

[hatboxghost]

I’m not a fan of flying, but here’s some advice I try to follow when I do fly...
Let the flight attendants know if you’re starting to feel really uncomfortable, even if they can just be an ear it’ll help.
If you drink caffeine, try NOT to before you fly because it’ll keep you too wired. Get a good nights sleep. Find an app that can keep you distracted. Focus on your breathing when you start to feel anxious. 4 in, hold 7, out 5. Breathe deep from your stomach. Sit by the window, I know this may seem counter intuitive, but it does help to be able to look out and see what’s going on. Also, when you’re in the air, imagine it as if you’re driving. Don’t even think about the fact that you’re in air. When you hit turbulence, if you do, think of it like hitting a pot hole in the road. Keep yourself distracted. Chat it up with someone if you can. Hopefully that helps!