Is it OK to be nervous on a plane?


Is it OK to be nervous on a plane? In short: you're not alone in your fear, and the anxiety you experience leading up to, and while aboard, your flight is very real (even if ultimately unfounded). There are ways to squash those fears, though, and it starts with a deliberate mental shift.


How can I fly without anxiety?

8 Steps to Overcoming Your Fear of Flying
  1. Latch on to triggers that set you off. ...
  2. Step onto the airplane with knowledge. ...
  3. Anticipate your anxiety. ...
  4. Separate fear from danger. ...
  5. Recognize that common sense makes no sense. ...
  6. Smooth over things that go bump in the flight. ...
  7. Educate fellow fliers how to help you. ...
  8. Value each flight.


Why am I so afraid of traveling?

Consuming news or anecdotes about negative travel experiences — such as accidents, injuries, crimes, or even falling ill while on vacation — can create anxiety around travel. Leaving what feels familiar or safe. Some people face discomfort about being away from home or visiting a new and unfamiliar place.


Is flying the safest way to travel?

Is flying safer than taking a train or bus? Flying is the safest form of long-distance transport the world has ever known.


How do I calm my anxiety before traveling?

Anxious While Traveling? 7 Tips for Coping with Travel Anxiety
  1. Identify triggers.
  2. Research.
  3. Prepare.
  4. Ground yourself.
  5. Practice self-care.
  6. Focus on positives.
  7. Talk it out.
  8. Next steps.


Why are most people afraid of flying?

“Some of the primary reasons some people are afraid to fly are a fear of crashing, a fear of being out of control, a fear of the unknown, a fear of heights, having lost a loved one in a plane crash and feeling claustrophobic,” says Ora Nadrich, a certified mindfulness meditation instructor and life coach.


Should I fly if I have panic attacks?

People who have panic attacks are often susceptible to faulty or negative thinking that can contribute to symptoms and fears. 9 Even if you feel fearful, try to remind yourself that thousands of flights are traveling safely. Reassure yourself that you too will make it to your destination safely.


Can traveling make anxiety worse?

For example, the stress of planning a journey, traveling in enclosed planes or trains, or visiting new, unfamiliar places can lead to anxiety symptoms.


Why does flying feel so unsafe?

People fear the unknown. In addition to a fear over losing control, people generally fear the unknown. Passengers on airlines face fears of crashing because they don't know about all the safety measures that pilots take before they fly.


How do you travel with someone with anxiety?

Go With a Buddy Many people with panic disorder have one or more loved ones with whom they feel comfortable and safe. If possible, try to enlist a trusted friend or family member to travel with you. Make sure that your companion is aware of your fears and anxiety.


What are four reasons people are afraid of flying?

What causes aerophobia?
  • News stories about terrorism, crashes or violence on airplanes.
  • Take-off and landing.
  • Thoughts about fire or illness spreading through the plane.
  • Turbulence (bumps during the flight).


Can flight attendants help with anxiety?

Flight attendants are trained in first aid – and this covers panic attacks and supporting people with anxiety on a flight. This training includes the questions they should ask someone having a panic attack and how to manage you out of one.


How do I stop being scared of turbulence?

How To Deal With Turbulence
  1. 1) Understand why turbulence occurs. ...
  2. 2) Know the facts and stats. ...
  3. 3) Buckle up. ...
  4. 4) Have faith in your pilot. ...
  5. 5) Breathing exercises. ...
  6. 6) Do an activity to put your mind elsewhere. ...
  7. 7) Sit in a seat that is good for avoiding turbulence. ...
  8. 8) Fly at times when turbulence is less severe.


What is the fear of flight called?

Aerophobia is an extreme fear of flying. People with aerophobia might feel intense anxiety before or during a flight. This condition can interfere with your ability to travel for work or pleasure. If aerophobia is affecting your quality of life, talk to your healthcare provider.