How to Get Over Fear of Flying
Millions of Americans suffer from aerophobia, or fear of flying. They tend to fly only if other options -- such as going by car, boat or train -- are not available. Sufferers have symptoms such as sweaty hands, dry mouth and a racing heartbeat when forced to fly. The condition may even result in hyperventilating and vomiting. Visualization techniques and meditation are among the treatments that may reduce the anxiety.
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Instructions
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Prepare yourself mentally. Look into the statistics first; flying is about 20 times safer than driving in a car, and you probably don't think twice about that. Think of how many people fly safely every day. Security is more strict than ever before. Airline staff is well prepared for emergencies. Planes are a safe, practical way to travel.
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Distract yourself as best as you can on flights. Try to sleep a little, read a book, listen to your MP3 player. Have a little ginger ale to settle an uneasy stomach, and just try to keep your mind off of everything to do with the flight. Try to use this time as free time.
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Take medication, depending on your needs: Dramamine for motion sickness, a combination pain reliever/sleep aid or possibly an anxiety medicine. Do what works for you.
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Talk out your fears. Talk with people about why they enjoy flying, share your fear with a flight attendant and hear what he has to say about it. Or try flying with a companion and talk through your fears as you get scared in mid-flight. The speaking therapy might help you realize it is OK to fly.
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Know that meditation can also help. Breathe deeply during take off and landing to calm yourself, do yoga the morning of your trip, drink a cup of herbal tea, read self-help books with calming techniques or use soothing meditation to keep your anxiety down during your travels.
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Consider hypnotherapy. If you have a serious fear (and the time and money) and are able to commit to a few sessions with a certified hypnotist, it might be worth your while.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't consume sweat snacks, coffee or caffeine-filled drinks the day of your flight. They may make you feel more tense.
