Posted by Alesa on August 17, 2004, at 11:00:55
In reply to Re: what to take before flying?, posted by karen m. on August 16, 2004, at 21:01:02
Karen,
I know how you feel, constantly anticipating the dreaded moment when you have to get into the airplane, wondering what'll be like, how you'll feel etc. And just thinking about it puts you in a sweat, a state of anxiety as your heart pounds.
Try not to think about it or worry about it as hard as that is. You'll be fine. I always realize that I'm fine when I'm actually on the plane. You won't freak out. A relaxant medication is a good idea because it'll help. Keep yourself busy when you're on the plane. Talk to someone beside you, read, listen to music and watch the movie. Most importantly, concentrate on your breath, breath deeply and slowly.
You should maybe practice getting in an elevator a little bit each day, until you get used to it and conquer your fear. Maybe get into an empty one first, and gradually work your way up to people in it. The more you avoid it, the more you feed your fear and will be afraid of it. I am doing that with escalators-I go on one a little bit at a time, until I'm ready for a bigger one. I learned this in an anxiety clinic for phobias.
poster:Alesa
thread:378001
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040817/msgs/378657.html