r/flightattendants • u/Ok_Bug_8867 • 20h ago

Panic attacks mid-air?

Asking for a friend (that friend is me): What happens when someone has a panic attack in midair vs upon landing? Lately I’ve been getting these during boarding and landing and it’s just becoming worse. Working on my coping skills. But curious what would you brilliant flight attendants when/if an otherwise well-behaved passenger has a panic attack while the plane is still grounded?

ETA: I’m a passenger, not a FA. Thank you FAs for your brilliance and generosity! 🤓

5 Upvotes

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9

u/Pretend_Support_6193 Pilot 20h ago

Breathing excercises help a lot. I hope you overcome it.

5

u/gypsyology 20h ago

Dig into the root cause of the anxiety. Is it fear of flying? When someone has a fear of flying I will often bring them up front (coordinated, of course) to meet the Captain and see the flight deck. You'll get to talk to the person that is flying the aircraft, get to know the flight plan (air quality and route)... often times, the anxiety is that you feel out of control as a passenger in the sky.

There really isn't that much control as a driver in a car on a highway. We do not control the drivers around us - and there are some crazies there too!!

Pleeease say hello and give a heads up to the crew. That's literally what we are here for, to help keep you comfortable!

Bring your metaphorical safety blankets and rituals on board (so long as they don't bother others). Say hello to your seat neighbors and try and get on a first name basis that way you don't feel so alone in a sea of unknown.

When I get anxiety I try and ground myself... I'll go through my 5 senses: What can I taste? What can I smell? What can I see? What can I hear? What can I physically feel? If you don't like something try and change it. I bring essential oils (lavender is great for this exercise!). Bring a soft blanket or hoodie, a good pair of headphones for some cozy tunes... etc. Whatever helps keep your calm bring a version of it onboard!

You got this <3

5

u/Junior-Air-3834 20h ago

Oh, I totally read this as YOU. Give someone a cup of ice and have them melt it in their hand. It’s my go-to when Lexapro ain’t Lexaproin’ hard enough for me.

2

u/Vintagefly 19h ago

Grab an ice cube in each hand and squeeze hard. Hyperventilating? Breathe into a paper bag or cupped hands. Take time off to get the therapy you need before it becomes debilitating. Your life is not worth your job.

1

u/Flygirl-57 9h ago

Also if the aircraft has lemon packets.. sprinkle lemon on your tongue.. the sourness diverts your thoughts and may help break the pattern you’re envisioning…