I’m also scared of flying! My solution is very simple. I prefer trains :) As you can’t avoid this flight, you need to get into the right attitude, to help logic prevail over irrational fears. It’s the “fake it till you make it” phase, so anything that can distract you can work. Listening to your favorite (positive:) music is one option. You can also download any meditation app on your phone and practice breathing techniques. It’s going to be all right!
Download your favorite shows onto a tablet or mobile phone. The ones they offer during the flight are often boring. Once you’re comfortably seated, immerse yourself in watching that content. Another method is to find the anchor thought. Choose one very pleasant image of something that will happen once you land: you’ll meet your family, you’ll be hugging someone you love, you’ll eat your favorite food… Now every time fear tries to ruin your flight, close your eyes and concentrate on that anchor thought. I hope it helps!
This phobia never goes away! I’m flying like all the time, and I still stress about it every single flight. Accepting that I have no control is the worst for me. The whole experience is questionable: crowds of people, long lines, then more waiting… I honestly don’t know any coping mechanisms, except acceptance that it’s going to be unpleasant, and then it’s going to be over.
I wish I could have a drink, like you did, but the state of my liver leaves much to be desired. Stupid distances! >:(
@Tommy J. You’re wrong. Aerophobia can go away and be treated, like any other phobia. It’s treated with therapy or medication, in some cases a combination of both. Exposure therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy are two effective approaches that allow people to manage their worrying thoughts and sensations. There’s no reason to suffer for so long, especially if your work or other circumstances require flying a lot. Reach out to a mental health professional, I assure you it’s worth it!
Have you ever talked to your neurologist about your fear of flying, Robert? The way you’ve titled your message – “stifling the fear” – it sounds like you don’t believe you can overcome it. It’s a common misconception that phobias are forever. They can be treated, just like the condition you’re treating now with SSRIs. On the other hand, temporary coping mechanisms will work only until they don’t, which happened with your alcohol trick. I believe after today’s flight, you need to invest into long-term solutions. Think about it!
@Tommy J. Huh, thanks, man! I dislike the entire process too! As for alcohol, it only helps those who get sleepy from one beer. I use it to my advantage, even though I hated it when I was younger. If alcohol doesn’t have such an effect on you, to my knowledge, it can actually exacerbate anxiety.
@abandoned No, I haven’t talked about my phobias with a neurologist. As far as I know, that’s the job for other specialists. I’m flying once in a blue moon, and with all the other problems, I won’t likely find the time for therapy in the near future. But I’ll keep it in mind.
@Veena Choudhary Thanks, I've safely landed and am enjoying my time! The flight back home is in two weeks, so I have some time to relax and not think about it. I always choose the seat that's not near the window, most people like watching the clouds, but for me it's a nightmare. I much prefer to be on land than in the air!
Fear of flying is completely normal. try these coping strategies to help you deal with it.