For many travellers, the thought of flying can stir up feelings of nervousness and anxiety. Feeling nervous or anxious during a flight can be triggered by various factors and symptoms. Here are some common ones:
1. Fear of Heights
If you're scared of heights, being thousands of feet in the air can naturally trigger anxiety.
2. Loss of Control
Some people feel anxious because they're not in control of the situation, especially during takeoff, landing, or turbulence.
3. Claustrophobia
Being confined in a small space for an extended period can exacerbate feelings of anxiety, especially if you're prone to claustrophobia.
4. Turbulence
Bumpy rides due to turbulence can make passengers feel uneasy, particularly if they're not familiar with how planes handle turbulence.
5. Previous Negative Experiences
Past unpleasant experiences during flights, such as severe turbulence or delays, can contribute to heightened anxiety in future flights.
6. Unfamiliarity
If you're not a frequent flyer, the unfamiliarity of the flying experience can be unsettling and lead to anxiety.
7. Anxiety Disorders
Individuals with pre-existing anxiety disorders may find that flying exacerbates their symptoms, leading to heightened nervousness and discomfort.
8. Physical Symptoms
Anxiety during flights can manifest in physical symptoms such as shallow breathing, sweating, rapid heartbeat, nausea, or dizziness.
Here are some helpful tips to help you stay calm and collected during your next flight:
Identify Your Triggers
Take some time to think about what specifically makes you anxious about flying. Is it the thought of turbulence? The feeling of being confined in a small space? By identifying your triggers, you can better prepare yourself to address them.
Educate Yourself
Knowledge is power. Take the time to learn about how airplanes work and the safety measures in place. Understanding the facts can help alleviate some of the irrational fears that fuel anxiety.
Communicate Your Needs
Don't be afraid to let the flight crew know if you're feeling anxious. They are trained to assist passengers and may be able to offer support or reassurance during the flight.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Deep breathing, mindfulness, and visualisation exercises can all help to calm your mind and reduce anxiety. Practice these techniques before and during your flight to help keep yourself grounded.
Focus on the Present
Instead of worrying about what could go wrong, focus on the present moment. Take note of your surroundings, engage in conversation with fellow passengers, or distract yourself with a book or movie.
Challenge Negative Thoughts
When anxious thoughts arise, challenge them with logic and reason. Remind yourself that flying is statistically one of the safest modes of transportation and that your fears are often exaggerated.
Value Each Flight
Treat each flight as an opportunity for exposure therapy. With each successful flight, you'll build confidence and gradually desensitise yourself to the triggers that cause anxiety.
By trying out these tips and tricks, you can learn to handle your flight worries and have a smoother, more enjoyable journey. And hey, you're definitely not the only one feeling nervous about flying! With a bit of practice and sticking to it, you'll be soaring through the skies feeling confident in no time. Have a fantastic trip!