How Do I Get Over Fear of Flying?
Air travel of the past was viewed as extravagant, elegant and sophisticated; most people relished in the idea of air travel focusing on the convenience and speed of reaching a new destination. Over the past few years air travel has become more of a chore with increased tension and stress; passengers who were at ease with air travel are now more anxious and stressed. These feelings are normal but are extremely different than those people who have an intense fear of flying and battle internal demons to get over the fear of flying.
In medical circles the fear of flying is referred to as Aviophobia. It is estimated that 15% of American adults suffer from this type of anxiety disorder and is typically caused by the apprehension people have with staying in a confined space while flying hundreds of miles above the ground. The sensationalist methods used by media houses during the rare occurrences of plane crashes have done little to ease the general fear held by the public. Neither has the fact that plane crashes are usually associated with a high fatality rate.
Flying however does not have to be an uncomfortable ordeal. There are several things that you can do to relieve the pressure of flying. If you’re getting ready to take a trip, here are some tips to help get over the fear of flying:
- You Are Safe: In order to get over the fear of flying you will need to first understand that flying is safe. The odds of being involved in a plane accident are about 1 in 10 million. Put in better perspective, you’re 2000 times more likely to get involved in an accident while driving a car than you are in a plane. Planes are built to high specifications of safety. This allows them to weather storms and pressures during the trip.
- Consider Using Behavioral Therapy Methods: There are several treatment methods which you can use to get over the fear of flying. One of these is the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) methods. For example, during your flight try and avoid relapsing into shallow breathing and focus on taking deep and long breaths. Rapid breathing only acts as a fuel of the onset of panic attacks. With steady breathing patterns, you will be able to ensure that your body receives adequate oxygen. The more oxygen in your system, the easier it will be for you to relax.
- Focus on the Positive: Focusing on positive thoughts will allow you to get over the fear of flying. Make a list of all the pleasant things about our flying and focus on them; focus on the destination why you are traveling in the first place. Think about the statistics associated with air travel which lists it as the safest way to travel, it is actually the second safest forms of transportation next to the escalator or elevator. Those are really good odds to have your on side.Travel with a Friend: For people who are scared of flying, the experience can be a lot less stressful when traveling with a friend. Their security and comfort is bound to be contagious making you relax more easily. Engaging in conversations during the flight will also allow you to focus on other details outside your fear.
- Choose a Comfortable Sitting Position: If you are scared of flying then it’s possible that you will not enjoy the experience of sitting next to a window. In order to avoid this, be sure to request for a seat in which you will be more comfortable. If your flight is going to be a long one you can opt for a position at the front of the cabin.
- Take Some Relaxants: Sleeping pills can help you sleep through your flight. So also can a number of natural herbs. If you feel that you are too edgy, you can rely on such options in helping you get over the fear of flying. A cup of herbal tea shortly before the flight will also help you relax better.
- Avoid Stimulants: Coffee will not help you get over the fear of flying and you certainly will not relax during your flight. If anything it will make you a lot worse leaving you nervous and edgy. This will only fan your fears making you even more prone to panic attacks during your flight.
- Listen to Music: Music has a big effect on your mood. To ease your stress levels either during your wait for the plane or mid flight, you can make a playlist of your favorite songs and listen to them. Alternatively, you can pack an interesting book to read during the flight. Keeping your mind engage will prevent your thoughts from wandering into unpleasant zones.
Above all, try and keep your thoughts under control and you will be able to get over the fear of flying at least for this time… and that is what it is about; this time will be better. Worry about the next flight when it is upon you. For now following these few simple tricks and in this one instance focus on the destination not the journey to help you get over the fear of flying.
Fear flying no more; learn more about a wonderful treatment program.
