If you suffer from a fear of flying, you should know you're not alone (even Aretha Franklin suffered from Aviophobia!) Here, we're talking practical ways to make your next flight more tolerable.
We all have fears: spiders, heights, public speaking and needles being some of the most popular, and in this era where travel has become so much easier, Aviophobia is getting a lot more press. While the fear of flying can put a dampener on the start of any holiday, many specialists believe that it can be completely unlearned. Failing that, here are 5 useful things to do pre-flight if you or someone you care about suffers from the condition.
5 ways to ease your fear of flying
Consult a specialist
Speaking to a trained professional about the fear can be extremely beneficial for those who live with Aviophobia. Experience-based therapies help sufferers to learn to deal with the anxiety around flying, while Cognitive Behavioural Therapy has also shown success in reducing concerns around being in the air. Like with any therapist-patient relationship, it’s important to shop around a little and find someone you gel with so that you can reap maximum rewards.
Prepare yourself in advance
Many people who suffer from Aviophobia take prescription medication to help them ease the anxiety on a flight or to put them into a sleep as soon as they get onboard. For those looking for less invasive treatments, here are a few ways to make your flight less daunting:
- Try and get some exercise in before your flight so that you body feels comfortable when you board
- Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption as these can affect your anxiety
- Choose a seat above the wing so as to minimise the feel of turbulence
- Book direct flights to avoid extending your flight time
- Try and select night time flights so that you feel tired and can easily rest
Use technology
Woohoo! Technology can be used for more than just selfies, and there are some great apps that can help you with your fear of flying. SOAR and TurbCast both fill you in on the weather conditions and what to expect pre-flight, while Fear of Flying Hypnosis was made to aid sufferers by targeting the subconscious mind.
Upgrade your life
Many sufferers of Aviophobia say that it’s the take-off and landing parts of flying that worry them the most, so why not spend a little extra and up your comfort factor when you fly? A number of airlines now offer premium economy class or if you want to go all out, upgrade to first-class and get yourself a sky couch. Money no option? Private jets give you all the comfort you need, plus there are no other people to worry about: #yolo.
Let the check-in staff know
It’s a good idea to let the check-in staff know if you suffer from acute Aviophobia. They will generally pass this information on to the cabin crew who will then be aware of your situation and help out where they can.
This post is sponsored by Air Charter Service.
