Tips to Overcoming a Fear of Flying

Tips to Overcoming a Fear of Flying

If you are afraid of flying then you’re not alone. Thousands of people are afraid to get on an airplane and they end up putting off great vacations because of it. Fortunately there are some ways to get over the fear of flying or to at least make it a little more bearable.

Determine What Your Triggers Are

You first need to figure out why you have such anxiety about flying and what your triggers are. Once you are able to do so you may be able to deal with those feelings. For example, if you are afraid of flying because you are worried about a plane crash, read statistics about how small of a likelihood there is of that actually happening and what you can do if a plane crash occurs while you are onboard. Research planes to see what safety gear they have in place and how they are constructed to handle flying.

Allow Yourself To Feel The Fear

Often times we tend to stay fearful if we minimize it. Don’t feel guilty about having anxiety about flying. Allow yourself to experience it for a bit. Once you deal with that you may find that you are actually less fearful on the flight. Talk about it to others, especially those that you will be flying with in the future, and ask them to act as a support system. For example, I am fine on the plane, but I hate the small airplane bathrooms.  My anxiety I found was in locking the door so I ask traveling companions to walk to the restroom with me so that I can use it without locking the door – that helped me and my bladder tremendously.

Focus on Your Breathing

Practice focusing on your breathing when you feel the anxiety coming on.  When you feel anxious, breath in through your nose for 2 counts, hold it in for 2 counts and then exhale gently for 4 counts.  Repeat this 5 to 10 times.  You will find that focusing on your breathing quiets the mind and therefore the anxiety.

Go On A Short Flight

If you are fearful of flying and haven’t flown in a while, it’s a good idea to go on a short flight so that you can see that your fears are unfounded. After your flight if you find that it wasn’t so bad, go on a longer flight. This will allow you to desensitize yourself so that eventually you will no longer have a fear of flying.

Concentrate On Where You Are Going

Your destination will probably have a lot of great things to do. Taking a car or train to get there may not be an option so going by way of air is necessary. Concentrate on your destination and all of the fun you will have in order to get over your fear of flying.

Talk To Other Fliers

Many travelers have had a fear of flying at one point or another. Talk to those you know that fly often and find out how they got over this fear. They probably can give you a lot of coping techniques that they used that will also be beneficial for you. If necessary, attend a fear of flying clinic in your area or see a therapist.

Talk to Your Doctor

For those that suffer from severe anxiety and are in good physical condition, your doctor may be willing to prescribe medication to calm your nerves. Just make sure that you follow the instructions and avoid mixing with alcohol. Some people find that a glass of wine calms them while others use benadryl to make them feel sleepy.  Discuss options with your physician.

Choose Your Seat Wisely

Where will you feel more comfortable? Some people want the window seat so they can close the shade and sleep during the flight. Others feel claustrophobic in a window seat and always want the isle.

Upgrade Your Seat

You would be surprised how a little extra room can help calm anxiety.  Pay for premium seats with extra leg room or if you can afford it, upgrade to business class.  This is especially important if you have a long flight.  When you are physically more comfortable, you will also find that you can have emotional comfort.

Use Noise Cancelling Headphones

Airplanes can be loud, so by using noise cancelling headphones you can shut out all of the engine noise. Why not add in soothing music while you are at it. It’s a well known fact that music can affect a person’s mood. Read more on How To Enjoy Music Offline While Traveling.  Watch a movie, read an E-book or play some games to keep your mind busy.  There are plenty of games available without Wi-Fi. We share them on our post Best Iphone Games for Airplane Mode.  The flight will feel like it goes by quicker, when you have your mind occupied with something.

Eat the Right Foods

Many nutritionists believe that certain foods can affect the brain and nervous system in a positive way.  Dark chocolate, green leafy vegetables, asparagus, berries, fish, avocados, almonds, pumpkin seeds & olive oil all make the list.  Why not opt for a spinach or kale smoothie with berries and almond butter or a nice salmon salad before you travel vs. sugary, processed or greasy foods.  Chamomile or green tea are good options over coffee or other caffeinated drinks. Make sure and also drink lots of water.

Make Yourself Feel at Home

Dress comfortable and bring something that makes you feel at ease.  Try to relax with a blanket, pillow, favorite book or stuffed animal from home.  These items will also help while you feel at home while you are away. Some people bring a rosary, others use essential oils such as lavender, bergamot, rose, basil, ylang ylang, chamomile, and neroil which all have been found to calm anxiety. You can learn more about essentials oils by reading New Years Lucky Scents.  Again bring familiar items with you that will make your feel more at home or keep your mind occupied. There are lot of items we recommend that you pack to make your flight experience better in our post essential items to have in your carry on bag.

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