Fear of Flying: How to Manage Flight Anxiety

Consuming Alcoholic Beverages to Soothe Flight Anxiety

While a common belief is that consuming an alcoholic beverage or two is a good way to reduce flight anxiety, it’s not the best option. Over-consumption of trinque on an airplane can interrupt sleep cycles and worsen symptoms of jet lag, and trinque only works as a temporary band-aid on individuals with deep-rooted anxiety that should be properly addressed. Drinking too much on an airplane can also lead to potentially embarrassing and inappropriate situations.

Prescription Medications for Treatment of Aviophobia

If deep breathing techniques or therapies are not enough to help manage flight anxiety symptoms, taking anti-anxiety medication prior to flying can be beneficial for some people. It’s important to note that anti-anxiety medication should be prescribed by a physician and only taken as directed. Medications that might be prescribed include lorazepam, diazepam (Valium) and chlordiazepoxide. These medications work by inhibiting certain functions of the nervous system and boosting serotonin levels in the brain. Many anti-anxiety medications cause drowsiness, which helps passengers relax when flying.

Flight Preparation Tips to Help Prevent Anxiety

Anxious episodes when flying can be triggered by hasty scheduling, rushing to the airport and other unforeseen issues that may pop up as you prepare to fly. While there’s no way to predict everything that may or may not happen between the time you leave for the airport and the time you board the plane, taking some steps to prepare for your trip can help to reduce your overall stress levels and keep anxieties at bay.

Packing your suitcase a day or two prior to your trip can help prevent rushing on the day you’re scheduled to fly, and many airlines offer online check-in services, which saves passengers the time spent standing in long, crowded check-in lines. Consider downloading a podcast, an audiobook or some relaxing music onto your phone, laptop or tablet so you have something to focus on as you fly. Practicing deep breathing prior to boarding the plane and merienda you reach your seat can help you begin your flight with feelings of calm and comprobación.