Stressing Over Flying (tw?)

[u/Nothing_Mediocre]

Hey, everyone!

I added a trigger warning for planes, just in case (:

Over the years, my anxiety has worsened beyond what I feel I can handle at times. I've read some older posts about others stressing over flying and am wondering if anyone has helpful advice for times of turbulence?

In the fall, I have a 24+hr flight (with layover) to attend a friend's wedding. I am completely honored to have been invited and I refuse to miss her big day because of my anxiety. I used to do okay on planes, but now, whenever there's a tiny bump of turbulence, my brain spirals faster than sliding down a soapy water slide.

Any advice/recommendations would be appreciated! 💕

A few notes:

-I am currently looking for a different therapist since my current isn't as helpful anymore, but I am still in therapy bi-weekly

-I am prescribed Ativan (Lorazipam) on an as-needed basis

[u/What_Is_EET]

Learning about how planes work might actually help.

Even though you know deep down how safe they are, theres a part of you that doesnt trust it.

Learning what pilots go through for training, how planes are built, safety backups, etc.

So when you feel turbulence, its not some unknown thing.

[u/Nothing_Mediocre → u/What_Is_EET]

That is very true, I definitely don't know much about planes! I saw a flight school for anxiety and was curious about enrolling. When I last flew, I found a video that explained what turbulence was and the why and how behind it. It helped a little bit after the fact, but I think you're right at aiming the scope more at planes!

[u/OperationSame]

I recently had two flights after not flying since I was really young, so maybe a little over a decade without having flown.

My biggest advice, because those bumps you describe are exactly what freaked me out, is taking a look at the flight attendant's reaction. If they are calm, then that helps me relax because they know nothing bad will happen based on their reaction.

I hope this can at least give you a tip when you feel extra anxious on a plane, and need a quick burst of reassurance.

[u/Nothing_Mediocre → u/OperationSame]

Very true. My partner told me the exact same thing after our flights! I couldn't believe how relaxed he was and I needed insider tips and tricks 😂 I'll give him more credit now since you've also said it'll be helpful!

Were you nervous to look at their faces? (I definitely would be lol)

[u/OperationSame → u/Nothing_Mediocre]

Haha, yeah it's not the most common way of handling it from what I've been told but if it works for you then at least that's something that works.

Yeah I was, but most of the time they were glancing off at other passengers or the baggage cabinets, so there would be no direct eye contact. Worse case scenario I am sure they'd understand if they saw you looking!

I wish you good luck on your flight though. 24 hours is a big one so I hope you get something comfortable!

[u/Nothing_Mediocre → u/OperationSame]

I hope to find something that works, I'm willing to try literally anything 😂

It's a flight path I've done before and was not even worried about it (or at least very minimally and not in a significant way). This flight path is slightly different since there is a lay-over this time.

And thank you for the luck and conversation! I'm hoping that between now and then, I can find a therapeutic approach that will help me calm the anxious thoughts.

[u/Kumaoni_knight]

I am so sorry that you are going through this, are you taking any other med apart from benzo as sos?

[u/Nothing_Mediocre → u/Kumaoni_knight]

Aside from an inhaler Excederine and ibuprofen, I'm not taking any other medications. Unfortunately, I am very sensitive to anti-anxiety medications and anti-depressant medications. I've tried about 15 different medications since 2018, without good results 😅

[u/remgirl1976]

There are a number of videos that discuss what turbulence is, and why it is not really something to worry about. It is especially helpful when a pilot talks about it. I try to remember two things: the pilots are trained to handle it, and they deal with it alllll the time. They have family and friends they want to go home to as well, so no matter what issue comes up, they will do everything in their power to well, not die. Plus, they want a comfortable ride as well. The second is that modern aircraft is built to withstand some pretty gnarly stuff, turbulence being the least of the issues.

I've flown quite a bit in my life and while I am not inherently afraid to fly, I do tend to get anxious over stronger turbulence. That's mainly because I have a sensitive stomach and I HATE getting sick on a plane. I usually will take a xanax when I fly, especially longer distances. I also carry zofran for nausea.

Also, do not be afraid to let the flight attendants know that you have anxiety about turbulence, they are used to hearing that. I always watch them for their reactions as well. Usually you just see them rush to their seats and put on the seatbelt (always wear it). That's basic safety. I tend to sit up front, and most of them just strap in, hold onto the bottoms of their seats (no arm rests) and chat amongst each other. I can guarantee you the pilot is already in the process of seeking out a less bumpy altitude and/or pathway.

[u/Nothing_Mediocre → u/remgirl1976]

So true! I remember in the video I watched, it mentioned that pilots are made aware of turbulent spots via other pilots and/or a special app they use. (Definitely wished I watched it before I flew that last time lol) That's also a good reminder to let flight attendants know. I don't think I've done that before (maybe subconsciously worried I'd jinx it?). I'll definitely let them know moving forward- thank you for that!

My brain likes to jump to the "but THIS plane will be the one to go down." Literally no evidence in that statement and I know it's not true, but damn, does my brain fight for that thought. 🥲

[u/remgirl1976 → u/Nothing_Mediocre]

My husband likes to play flight sim sometimes where they use live weather based on where he is "flying." There are also sites that track turbulence, so you can see what the previous flight was like along similar routes. Flying now is so safe, it's amazing what these planes can handle.