Posted by karen m. on August 19, 2004, at 20:30:08
In reply to Re: what to take before flying?, posted by Buckeye Fan on August 18, 2004, at 15:06:39
> All the fears that have been mentioned on this thread ( flying, elevators, escalators, etc...) all have one thing in common.
>
> Loss of control.
>
> In my opinion, this is the core issue...one of NOT being in control of our enviroment.
>
> The panic attacks are the reaction to the perceived threat.
> Thats why the panic quickly dissipates after the plane lands...or the Elevator Door Opens.
>
> In our mind...we perceive the threat is over
>
> Also..its ALMOST comical that we have the desire to "run up and pound on the Cabin Door..or demand that we be let off the plane"... both of which only increase actual( not perceived ) danger.
>
>
> So far,I have NOT been able to conquer my fear of flying, elevator rides in tall Buildings, being out at Sea on a Boat, etc...
> I can only mask the panic reation with sufficient Xanax.
>
> Just wanted you to know that these are very common Phobias shared by millions.
> I personally am always interested in reading about techniques and therapy that have helped others who no longer have these fears/Phobias.
>
> Some good advice here already, especially about facing the fear over and over again ( this is known as Exposure Therapy)
>
> If we could control our thoughts ABOUT the situation...we can control our reation.
> That is why diverting our attention elsewhere ( as someone mentioned) is effective.
>
> Its all about how we think about it ( or do not think about it)
>
> Buckeye Fan
>
>
> Good advice. Interesting that you brought up loss of control. I have never thought about it that way but it makes sense as I have never been good in situations where i cannot control my ability to leave. this would translate easily into an elevator or plane.years ago i would have panic attacks in meetings where i had to speak. i thought it was the speaking but it may have been that i couldn't go anywhere until i spoke.
I am going to look into that book that was mentioned in one of the above answers "Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway". And the drugs!
>
poster:karen m.
thread:378001
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040817/msgs/379646.html