Overcoming Fear of Flying: Tips for a Stress-Free Flight to Visit Mom in FL

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread explores participants' experiences and feelings regarding the fear of flying, particularly in the context of traveling to visit family. Many contributors share personal anecdotes about their anxiety related to flying, especially during takeoff, while others discuss coping mechanisms and distractions they use during flights.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses increasing fear of flying despite having flown many times, noting that takeoff triggers panic attacks.
  • Another participant shares their experience of flying with children, stating that distraction helps alleviate their anxiety during flights.
  • Several users mention feeling more comfortable when flying with family, as it provides a distraction from their fears.
  • One participant discusses their fear of flying stemming from being a control freak, feeling responsible for others on the flight.
  • Another contributor humorously mentions using alcohol as a coping mechanism while flying, contrasting their enjoyment of flying with the hassle of travel logistics.
  • Some participants find comfort in statistics about flight safety, believing that many flights occur without incident.
  • One user describes their physical reactions to flying, such as sweating and tension during turbulence, and emphasizes the need for a window seat to feel more secure.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ among participants regarding the sources of their anxiety and the effectiveness of various coping strategies. No clear consensus emerges on the best way to manage fear of flying.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a range of personal experiences, highlighting that fear of flying can be influenced by individual circumstances, such as traveling alone or with children, and personal traits like being a control freak.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those within the consultant community who experience anxiety about flying, particularly when traveling for business or family visits.

Y
Yakmama
Messages
199
I am flying down to see my mom in FL in a couple of weeks. I have flown dozens of times before- but for some reason it scares me more and more each time I fly. I've even taken a 24 hour flight to Africa, and when I was in college I would fly home twice a year.

I can't really pinpoint why I get scared- but about 30 minutes into the flight I'm completely calm. I'm even fine during turbulence and landing. It's just the take off that makes me go into a panic attack. I have a layover and each leg of my flight is only about an hour long- so I know I won't be in a plane for very long at all.

Rationally I KNOW that flying is safer than driving- but I still feel sick to my stomach about it. I hope I'll get over it before my flight day. I'll be flying alone with the two kids with one layover. That part also makes me nervous!

Words of comfort would be greatly appreciated!
 
I'm sure you'll be fine. Try not to think about it till the day you go. Then just think of the great weather you'll be having while there! And think about me in NY with snow on it's way!
 
I hate to FLY !! The 1st time I had to do it, I was 4 mo pg. and that was terrible.. then again witha 7 yr old and a 5mo old, and one more time with 3 kids ages 9,2, 8mo ... all the way from San Diego,CA to VT.. each time

and you know that it always got worse too.. I hear what you are saying..
but the last time I flew I did it by myself and that was the worst because I did not have my family with me..

I know that when I flew with my kids I was a bit more distracted and it didn't dawn of me that we were flying expect for take off and landing..
like the other post said "try" not to think about it till you go.. the more you dwell on it the more stressed you become... at least that is my experience.

if you can ask your dr for anti anxiety pill.. that worked for me when I flew.. and I took it with the kids.. it really just gave me a clam feeling..

Good luck.. I will be thinking of you :)
 
I know the feeling! I'm going to Leadership in January and have never flown before! I'm totally scared and slightly freaking out every time I think of it. BUT, I've realized that PC has helped me through a lot of things and has allowed me to do things I would have never done before. I'm still scared sh*tless but I'm going to do it!
 
Yakmama said:
I am flying down to see my mom in FL in a couple of weeks. I have flown dozens of times before- but for some reason it scares me more and more each time I fly. I've even taken a 24 hour flight to Africa, and when I was in college I would fly home twice a year.

I can't really pinpoint why I get scared- but about 30 minutes into the flight I'm completely calm. I'm even fine during turbulence and landing. It's just the take off that makes me go into a panic attack. I have a layover and each leg of my flight is only about an hour long- so I know I won't be in a plane for very long at all.

Rationally I KNOW that flying is safer than driving- but I still feel sick to my stomach about it. I hope I'll get over it before my flight day. I'll be flying alone with the two kids with one layover. That part also makes me nervous!

Words of comfort would be greatly appreciated!
Click to expand...



Could you be my twin? I am the same way, used to fly from TX to WV all the time & have flown to Costa Rica.. Nothing bad or scary ever happened, but I am terrified.. I think it's b/c I am a control freak! But I will say a prayer for you.. Plus I am sure the kids will take your mind off of it :-)
 
Yakmama said:
I am flying down to see my mom in FL in a couple of weeks. I have flown dozens of times before- but for some reason it scares me more and more each time I fly. I've even taken a 24 hour flight to Africa, and when I was in college I would fly home twice a year.

I can't really pinpoint why I get scared- but about 30 minutes into the flight I'm completely calm. I'm even fine during turbulence and landing. It's just the take off that makes me go into a panic attack. I have a layover and each leg of my flight is only about an hour long- so I know I won't be in a plane for very long at all.

Rationally I KNOW that flying is safer than driving- but I still feel sick to my stomach about it. I hope I'll get over it before my flight day. I'll be flying alone with the two kids with one layover. That part also makes me nervous!

Words of comfort would be greatly appreciated!
Click to expand...

Me too! I've flown quite a bit here and internationally....and every single time I've hated it! It never gets any easier for me. It doesn't completely stop me from flying - but I don't get a thrill from it like DH does. I'd like to just take some happy pills and sleep through it all, but that just isn't a good option.

I feel the same way about bridges.
 
They offer teeny-tiny bottles of calm on every flight.

They're about $6 apiece, and go really good with orange juice, cranberry juice, or just ice.

I find that about 42 of them works for me :)

(Just kidding...I love flying. It's the hassle of getting on, off, and to the plane that I hate.)

I too, am a control freak, however, so theoretically, I should be scared to fly. I'm not though...I think it's because the mechanics of it absolutely fascinates me, and more than being a control freak, I'm the kind of girl who has to figure out how everything works. So I concentrate on that while flying...how something that big can fly so high and fast, and land on those little bitty tires. I weigh considerably less than a plane, and my shoes are probably proportional, but I can't fly. Huh.
 
I've always thought my fear was from being a control freak, as well. I have to stay away the entire flight, even long flights to Europe, as I have to be aware of all that is going on, and I take on the responsibility for all those people that are sleeping with no worries, to worry if I hear or detect any noise in case I have to alert the pilots! LOL. I actually did that once in England -- turned out to be nothing at all. Oh well. I did my job and was alert!I stay awake, but now have found the wonders of using a CD player during flight. I carry a stash of CDs with me and it seems to take my mind of it.
 
Jean DeVries said:
They offer teeny-tiny bottles of calm on every flight.

They're about $6 apiece, and go really good with orange juice, cranberry juice, or just ice.

I find that about 42 of them works for me :)

(Just kidding...I love flying. It's the hassle of getting on, off, and to the plane that I hate.)

I too, am a control freak, however, so theoretically, I should be scared to fly. I'm not though...I think it's because the mechanics of it absolutely fascinates me, and more than being a control freak, I'm the kind of girl who has to figure out how everything works. So I concentrate on that while flying...how something that big can fly so high and fast, and land on those little bitty tires. I weigh considerably less than a plane, and my shoes are probably proportional, but I can't fly. Huh.
Click to expand...


This would be why I would need those little bottles of calm!:eek:
 
Trust in statistics. Thousands of flights every day and only a few problems a year. That is something I seek comfort in. :thumbup:
 
Admin Greg said:
Trust in statistics. Thousands of flights every day and only a few problems a year. That is something I seek comfort in. :thumbup:
Click to expand...

I think of that, as well as the fact that if it's my time to go, it's my time to go. Doesn't matter if I am in a car, a plane, or sitting in my living room. I do pray for a sense of calmness and to trust that God will keep me (and the entire plane of people!) safe!
 
I understand completely... I've always been terrified to fly...I cant relax, (even with muscle relaxers from the doc) my palms are sweaty the WHOLE time.. and I wont fly if i don't have a window seat. Also, any turbulance makes me tense up and airpockets scare the life out of me...But every time I get off the flight, I feel proud of myself for doing it. Thats what keeps me flying.Might try that?
 
Also, I think ive been terrified because of an incident that happened when i was 10.
I was flying by myself from Ca, to NC. And it was my first time flying since i was 6, and we had an emergency landing in Reno due to an elderly lady having a stroke... and the runway was too short for the huge plane we were in and the breaks went out.. everyone was ok though..also when the flight finally went off again to NC, we flew over a thunderstorm.. i've never been more scared in my life!!!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective techniques to manage anxiety before flying?

To manage anxiety before flying, consider practicing deep breathing exercises, visualization techniques, or mindfulness meditation. Preparing for your flight by researching the airline's safety record and familiarizing yourself with the flight process can also help reduce fear. Additionally, talking to someone about your fears can provide support and reassurance.

How can I distract myself during the flight?

Bringing along engaging distractions can help keep your mind off flying. Consider downloading movies, podcasts, or audiobooks to enjoy during the flight. You can also bring a book, puzzle, or even a travel journal to keep yourself occupied. Engaging in conversation with your seatmate can also serve as a great distraction.

Are there any relaxation techniques I can use while on the plane?

Yes, there are several relaxation techniques you can use while on the plane. Progressive muscle relaxation, where you tense and then relax each muscle group, can be effective. Additionally, listening to calming music or nature sounds can help create a peaceful environment. Practicing slow, deep breaths can also help calm your nerves.

What should I do if I start to feel anxious during the flight?

If you start to feel anxious during the flight, try to focus on your breathing. Take slow, deep breaths and count to four as you inhale, hold for four, and exhale for four. You can also use grounding techniques, such as focusing on the sensations of your feet on the floor or the feeling of the seat against your back. If needed, don’t hesitate to inform a flight attendant about your anxiety; they are trained to help passengers feel more comfortable.

Is it helpful to talk to a professional about my fear of flying?

Yes, talking to a professional can be very helpful in overcoming a fear of flying. A therapist can provide you with coping strategies and techniques tailored to your specific fears. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for phobias, as it helps you change negative thought patterns associated with flying. Consider seeking help well in advance of your trip to give yourself time to work through your fears.

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