Flying tomorrow :(

iVillage Member
Registered: 02-25-2002
Flying tomorrow :(
8
Thu, 03-22-2007 - 5:02pm

So tomorrow is the big day I fly by myself for the first time from Newark to Denver. I must say, I am kind of freaking out. Keep getting this feeling of just overhwelming panic and like I am not going to be able to do it. I keep imagining something horrible is going to happen - like the plane is going to blow up or crash. I don't know where this fear comes from, but knowing I will be alone is just making it worse.

I did a fear of flying online course, went to a web chat, a phone chat AND spent money on an audio program about it! AND I have my Xanax...but I am still scared. Any tips or support?

Thank you,
Lisa

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-12-2006
Thu, 03-22-2007 - 6:45pm

*hugs* I've never been on a plane, but I'm sure that you'll have a great time!!!

El




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Avatar for peoplearenuts
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-25-2003
Thu, 03-22-2007 - 8:00pm

I have flown a lot. I get a little nervous sometimes but mostly I just tell myself that it's highly unlikely the plane will crash. You know all the statistics, but if you're scared that probably is small comfort.

My only advice is to take the Xanax when you *first* start to get worked up. Don't wait until you're in the middle of a full blown panic attack. If you feel uneasy, off, whatever and can tell you're getting into panic mode, take it! My therapist gave me that advice - she said it's easier for the drugs to work on your body before you are totally revved up.

Good luck!

Avatar for alsmith32
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-27-2003
Thu, 03-22-2007 - 10:56pm
I could be you except after years and years of being a complete freakazoid about flying to the point where I really didn't think I could force myself to get onto a plane again and my dh wouldn't even sit next to me, I finally realized that it would be ok if I took xanax. The thing is, once you have an OK experience with flying (with Xanax for me!!!), then the next time is better. you think, well, the last time I didn't feel so bad. So you're not as anxious. It just gets better each time instead of worse. I take 1/2 xanax 1/2 hour before the flight is scheduled to leave. Or earlier if we are going to be boarding earlier. It takes about 20 minutes to work. I take 1/2 for 2 reasons: 1, it works ok for me and I don't want to overmedicate, and 2, if we get delayed I can take another 1/2 later and I won't be a mess. Also if I take too much I get a headache. so, that's my solution. Seriously, I was just about as bad as you could get and still fly. I also bring several magazines along to occupy myself. I can't concentrate enough to read a book but reading a magazine is good. Hope that helps you. I have been improving now for about 5 years and I fly about 2x a year and each time is pretty good. No babbling or shaking. so see, you are smarter than me because you realized about the xanax earlier. I have my doctor prescribe me 3 or 4 at a time and that lasts for about a year or 2. We laugh about how I am certainly not addicted!!! Best of luck, if you want to post again I will check later.
allie
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Thu, 03-22-2007 - 11:34pm

Hi, Lisa! I have a hunch. Call it woman's intuition, that you are going to come through with flying colors;) Honestly, you have done more in preparation than alot of folks would. All bases are covered. Chances are more than good, that you will never experience that panic attack you fear.


I believe you will do fine. Now, you believe it! Good luck & GBU! (((hugs))) jan

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iVillage Member
Registered: 02-25-2002
Thu, 03-22-2007 - 11:46pm

Thank you so much! I am in and out of feeling nervous, but I know once I get through takeoff, I will relax a bit. Just have to remember all the good people out there thinking of me! Send good thoughts my way - I will check in from Colorado if and when I can!

Thanks!
Lisa

iVillage Member
Registered: 01-31-2004
Fri, 03-23-2007 - 1:17am

{{{{LISA}}}}}

        
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Registered: 12-31-2005
Fri, 03-23-2007 - 12:29pm
Hi I flew for the first time 2 years ago. I was 45 and never been out of my home state. I had to fly to attend DD's wedding. Noway was I going to let her down. My legs froze just as I got to the door of the plane. I even met the pilot. I took dramimne and I found great comfort in a personal cd player and took my favorite cds with me. I did ok and my DD was so proud of me when she met us at the airport. I will have to do it again but think it will be much easier. You will do fine. It is not as bad as I had made it up in my mind to be.

over 40 and tired

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Fri, 03-23-2007 - 1:55pm

Too many *senior moments* have made it impossible for me to recall if you posted before. LOL I think you may have because I seem to recall your *handle.*


I did want to welcome you & let you know how much we appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts. Those were very helpful suggestions & an inspiration to those of us learning to face our fears. Congrats on your flying success! Keep in touch. GL & GBU! (((hugs))) jan

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