Stop a Panic Attack on a Plane: 13 Tricks (Anxious Flying Tips from a Ex-Anxious Flight Attendant)
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For those with aviophobia (aerophobia) or the fear of flying, planes can be a massive source of anxiety and panic attacks. Having worked as a flight attendant for a few years (as well as many years of experience with panic attacks!), here are my top 13 tricks for reducing anxiety while flying or stopping a panic attack on an airplane. ..
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It's not even having fear about crashing or turbulence. It's about fearing having a panic attack before it even happens. Seems irrational and not logical, but in my mind it is. I'm about to be flying in 4 days and I'm a nervous friggin wreck. 😭😭
I totally get that! My panic attacks always worked the same way. Fear of embarrassing myself or panicking in a place I couldn't escape caused me to fear situations like that. If it makes you feel any better, remember that there are always a few lavatories where you could go to sit for a few minutes and be alone while you catch your breath or cool down. Flight attendants are used to nervous fliers as well, and will always be happy to talk you through it!
I hope you made it through successfully Cassie
That's how mine works for sure!
@@mikesauceda9376 I did...thank you.
@@tylerjellis Hey I am going to fly next month...it is my first flight...9 plus 8 hours And I started feeling anxious now only.... My mind is thinking what I will do before flying... If panic attack comes at airport and my family is standing outside then what I will do... What I will do in case of motion sickness dizziness etc...ear pain...ear blocked... ( I experienced motion sickness in domestic plane ...but it wasnt there in return flight ) I have read that motion sickness is not there in big planes... Kindly ease my nerves...I do not want to spoil my next month just thinking...
i suffer from a panic disorder and it’s truly about panicking on the plane and not being able to run away and escape to a place where i feel safe. panicking in the air knowing you’re stuck up there is extremely scary. i have 6 months to prepare thankfully!
Hopefully, some of the tips will help. You've got this!
You'll be fine. You got this
i have just 36 hours left)) as usually not prepared - just my medications - and positive thoughts to think of - must make my brain believe that im not in the plane and it is going to end soon
I am in the same boat. All I know is I am not going to enjoy this.
I’m debating on flying for the first time and I feel the exact same way , I’m scared of heights and knowing there’s nothing I can do if I decide to fly when I’m up there scares the heck out me
my advice is if you see everyone around you calm then everything is okay and you shouldn’t be the only one worrying
My anxiety is also fear of making the fool out of myself which in turn makes me make the fool out of myself
Thank you so much. I just had my flight without panic attack thanks to your video. It was such a great experience.
I love to hear that! Thank you so much for the kind words, I'm happy your flight went well! 😃
Looking out the window is great for me during turbulence cos you can see that you are still flying level and that, in most cases, it's the clouds out there causing it. I'm also scared of heights but only when I think I could fall over the edge, or through those glass walkways.
I used to love flying and would fly by myself all the time! Ever since the whole pandemic my anxiety has increased an insane amount. My first flight back I had my first real anxiety attack ever and they almost had to stop the plan because I felt so nauseated. It’s so odd.
Yeah, anxiety definitely sneaks up on us when we get a bit "rusty." The important thing is you got through that flight. Don't back down from those things that make you nervous, no matter how awful they might be, and you'll notice your anxiety in that situation decreasing over time.
Yes!! I just got on a plane for the first time in 2 years.. I used to fly to Europe solo and hadn’t had airplane anxiety in 15 years. Last week during takeoff I almost had an unbuckle my seatbelt, run to the front “let me off the plane!” Moment. Absolutely terrifying.
Omg I'm going through the same thing
Had my first flight in a long time yesterday, just a short two hour one, but due to bad weather stuck on tarmac for 40mins. Absolutely full flight and I’m not the smallest of people so really squished in. Masks on and my brain was screaming at me - there is not enough air in here! There are too many people!! Was really close to asking to be taken off flight. Felt so embarrassed. Tried my calming apps, breathwork, music… was really pretty horrid, couldn’t get that claustrophobic feeling to calm down till probably halfway through the flight… now I have to fly back home today… wish me luck!
This is true for me as well. Used to fly back and forth from Ft Lauderdale to NY all the time. Then, after 9/11, on my first flight I suffered a severe panic attack! I broke out in a full body sweat and just felt like I was going to die - felt like I could not get enough air into my lungs. A flight attendant saw how miserable I looked (I guess?) and came up to me and asked if I was all right. I told her NO and she said - without even asking what’s wrong - “you need to get off this plane now before we close the doors.” I did as she said - with basically all the passengers nearby looking at me in fear that I was crazy or something. This was only several months past 9/11 and it was VERY fresh in people’s minds and the airplane industry wasn’t playing around. I don’t blame the Flight Attendant one but for asking me to get off the aircraft! But now, I have this awful fear of something like that happening again. I mean really, WHO CARES if it happens (other than me or maybe someone I’m flying with). I mean no one knows who I am and if I get anxious or panicky, who cares? Right? I do have medication now to take and I will definitely take it before a flight. Haven’t been on a plane since that encounter. 😢
I was scared to fly so I went in a small aircraft first. But I had a terrible panic attack and I told him to land immediately. Second, I got some valium the second time and I comfortably flew around in a joy flight for an hour and a half. After this I did pilot courses. Then I learnt how to fly. Bottom line is to get that medication in you so you can think straight. Flying is beautiful.
how far in advance did you take the pill?
You are a good dude. Thanks for the video mate. Very informative video for a very common occurrence.
I have been flying since I can remember but it’s always made me very worried. It used to be an irrational fear that we would crash and I always thought of the worst outcomes. I started taking anti anxiety meds before flights and it helped. Now that I am older I don’t think twice about it. However, I have been going through a rough patch and being in a weak mental state brought me back to the fear I used to have. I panicked on a plane a few days ago for about 10 minutes but it felt like so much longer. I think it’s just the thought that I am stuck in a small cabin for x amount of time and there is nothing I can do. The fear is different now but it came on more intense than it used to and I never expected it. Now I’m watching this because my flight back home is in a few days.
Looking out the window actually helps me and Im glad Im not the only one! It reminds me were moving along.
I had been anxious about flying for years, even driving over 1,000 miles rather than fly 😞. I had watched your video, as well as several others, and found your advice to be so good that my most recent trip, involving a quick stopover, to be "quite" pleasant. True, there was no turbulence (apart from the jump from one city to the other over the mountains - only to be expected), but all was good apart from a brief 5-10 minutes when I felt I was spiraling into panic. The exercises you suggest really did help! I did take a Valium/Diazepam plus a glassapproach
Thank you!!!!!!
Brillant video and tips! Thank you a lot.
Thanks so much!
Fantastic and thorough video!
Thank you! :)
This was a great video so thank you. What about turning the air on over you and drinking cold water or just holding it in your hands. That helped me and I'm glad you talked about being claustrophobic and being scared of turbulence. Sitting near a window helps if you're claustrophobic.
Love ur clips
Awesome hints and info. Lol .... I'm one of those people that suffers from anxiety and panic disorder unfortunately. Your information is excellent to know for people that are suffering from these conditions. 👍
Thanks for the feedback, I really appreciate it!
This really helped.. I'll be flying for the first time and have severe anxiety and suffers panic attack .. this is really good thank you sooo much
So needed this and all the comments below! Getting on a short flight in a couple weeks - my issue is more about my anxiety issues and leaving my life for the time I am gone - so the flight is almost just something adding to my stress of leaving more than the actual flying. Working on this - thinking about how to have my business and life set for me to take time away. :) TY for this!
How did it go? I’m gonna fly in August after 11 years since my last flight. It’s only an 1 hr 30min.
This is a great video. Thank you!
These were all great tips. Everything you suggested is spot on. I’m a window looker-outer. I like being in the window or in the middle. Seeing the ground helps me.
Thank you for this video
No problem!
25:04, this helped me too. And I guess it's just a mindset you have to create. I need to get back on a plane, to get rid of the anxiety which might build up if i don't
Great video man 👍🏽 good work
Thank you!
I am 13 and flying alone for the first time tomorrow to visit my best friend and I am scared of a malfunction or something worse or just being in distress. This helped me so much!
Thank you for your video❤
No problem!
This video was phenomenal… thank you
Thanks a lot!
It’s crazy he said Japan I literally am going to Japan for the first time, looked at this video for some comfort, and it honestly has helped! Thank you!
Flying is usually actually an incredibly smooth experience similar to riding in a comfy car. The noises (especially the engine noise) can be a little scary during takeoff and especially landing but that's really all it is, just noise. I was nervous the first time I flew but I made a point of looking around and listening to the voices of the other people on the plane with me. None of them were concerned, everyone was chatting calmly and some were even already sleeping. That assured me that flying is, in the overwhelming majority of instances, an uneventful and even sometimes boringly mundane experience. I know that saying "there's nothing to be afraid of" doesn't help someone who's afraid (I have GAD myself, you can't just tell someone to turn off their worries) but it helped me to see others treating the event of flight as a total non-issue. I was nervous at first but after a few years and a dozen flights, I don't get the chance anymore and I've really come to miss it.
Thanks for sharing that!!
Thanks for your help. You are a great help. I wish I could fly with you and I would be completely fine on air. No anxiety att all
Ahh thanks! If you're flying anywhere good, maybe I will join! 😂
Great video I suffer from anxiety, panic attack disorder and agoraphobia and this video definitely helped I’m ready to fly just anxious about it thinking I’ll fly with a family member first before by myself.
Good for you for stepping out of your comfort zone! Flying for the first time with a family member is a great idea. Remember you can always talk to the flight attendants a bit if you get nervous; they've all been on THOUSANDS of flights and know what's normal and what's not. Don't be shy, they deal with nervous fliers all the time. You've got this!
Thanks for sharing. I've only flown once in the past, I was 3 at the time, but I am planning a trip this summer to South Dakota and have a bit of anxiety.
Sweet! The best advice I can give you since it sounds like you're just a "bit" anxious and not "full-blown panic mode." Try to enjoy it as the incredible experience that it is. I mean, you're soaring safely through the air like a bird; something our ancestors could only dream of. You'll also probably get some free snacks and maybe get to watch a movie. It's a hell of an experience. Try not to let it build up in your head into something more than it really is; you'll probably wind up enjoying it.
Thank you for this video. New subscriber. My biggest fear is lack of control but also health anxiety. Every doctor I've been to says I'm healthy, but I still worry about having a heart attack or serious panic attack to wear It turns into emergency. I used a bag of ice on my neck to cool my core down on my last flight. It helped but I had a horrible time getting through it. I'm saving your video to rewatch later.
No problem, I'm glad you found it helpful! I've also had health anxiety in the past. Rather than dwell on everything that could go wrong (heart problems, etc.) I try to focus on what I could do to prevent those things (exercise, eat healthy, etc.) If we do that, in a weird way, anxiety actually becomes a superpower in keeping us motivated to stay healthy. Something else that was really helpful to me (I used to have heart palpitations from anxiety) was seeing a cardiologist and having an EKG done. Just being told, objectively, that we are fine and not at risk for a cardiac event, etc. can be a massive mental relief. I'm glad you got through your last flight, even if it did stress you out a bit. Always remember that discomfort > avoidance. Any time we confront our fear, no matter how scared we may feel, it loses a bit of power over us!
Same here. Always thinking I’ll have heart rate so fast it’ll make a clot . It’s so hard living with anxiety but I trust God
I cried while watching this video. Thank you for making this. 😭😭
You're welcome!
i have a flight in a couple days, but ive had panic attacks on the last ~5 flights ive taken, and as it gets closer i get more anxious! thanks so much for this video, im trying to enjoy my spring break but its pretty hard
I feel ya! But hey, panic attacks or not, you still made it through those flights, didn't you? You'll make it through this one too! And for spring break... totally worth it. You've got this!
I'm so happy i found your channel. I'm 40 and I've had panic attacks all my life. They're so scary.
I'm glad you're here as well! I hope these videos can help :)
@@tylerjellis they already have. Bless you.
Hey man this is a great video. I have a flight coming up in January and I am quite nervous even though Ive flown before and been skydiving as well. It will probably be about a 4 hour flight and I am super worried about having an attack on the plane and losing my cool while Im with my friends and girl friend. You made some great points in this and I will more than likely even watch this when getting onto the plane. Thanks a lot man!
I can totally relate to that. Try to remember, you're NOT going to lose your cool. Even if you do feel panicky for a few moments, it's going to pass; it always does. Try to focus on how intense and scary skydiving must have been compared to just sitting on what is, as far as you're concerned, an expensive bus ride. It's a breeze, and you've got this!
Yeah my fear is making a scene and my family members feeling embarrassed!
I never had a fear of flying until recently when I started thinking about it a lot more. One thing my friend told me was to keep saying to yourself that the "Pilot will handle it" when anything happens that makes you nervous and it has helped me a lot.
My biggest issue is I start getting anxious due to the lack of air/airflow and that starts making me claustrophobic tho anywhere else in life I’m not claustrophobic. Just on a plane because I feel no air moving. Might get a small usb fan that I can power up on a power bank. Definitely going to try and see how it does
One of the first things I do is put the vents on high directly on me. Keep in mind that they won’t work during the time that you have pushed back from the gate until the plane is powering up. I think the battery powered fan is a great idea!
My fear is having a panic attack and away from a hospital especially long flights. Not a high jacking, not a crash, not being so high In air but I fear of having panic attack. I’m a weird bird.
Hey, I totally get it; a major source of my own panic attacks used to be environments where I felt I'd be unable to escape or hide my panic attack. This caused a ton of anxiety at places like dentists' offices, hospitals, classrooms, road trips, etc. Something that really helped me was to remind myself of the fact that the battle is taking place in our mind, and really has very little to do with our physical environment. Our brain is screaming at us to run away and hide, but you can't outrun your own thoughts. Think about it: Can any person or place REALLY stop your panic attack? The best a hospital can do is give you medication and a massive bill. Close your eyes and pretend to be somewhere else if it's helpful to you. For people who feel the urge to try and "escape," practicing meditation (visualization exercises in particular) can be massively helpful. Create a specific visualized environment that helps you feel calm and practice mentally returning to it time and time again anytime your current environment causes you stress. Hope this helps a bit, I was a weird bird too!
@@tylerjellis thank you so much for this response. Truly means a lot 🥲 ❤️ appreciated and I will work on that.
@@alexdelacruz3543 No problem. You got this!
That's my exact issue as well. Im not afraid of flying, I trust the pilots and ground control 100%. I've educated myself on the statistics etc...but what I fear is having an attack on the plane and NOT being able to get help or do my normal routine of walking around or putting water on my face and being in front of a fan. Tbh I'm nervous of having to make an emergency landing because of it and ruining everyone's day.
One thing I've done, is started taking only short non stop flights. Im from Sacramento, so I'll only do like SMF to LAX or LGB. I do this to desensitize myself and make the plane, the sounds and routines all familiar to me. Its actually working! I'm taking a flight to Cabo in September and it'll be my longest flight so far. I feel good about it but I'm still kinda anxious. But think about this: 1. What is a hospital going to really do for you that you can't do yourself? I can take my own Xanax, all they will do is shoot you with Ativan or some other Benzo. 2. Has anyone EVER died from an attack? ( NOPE) Just educate yourself, facts tend to help keep the subconscious mind from thinking irrationally. Hope all goes well
Thank you for making this video and for sharing it . A lot of people get over their fears and phobias and move on but it takes a really good person to share how they Did it to help others who are suffering and Going through it so big big kudos to you I have just one tip for you It Would be nice if you would summarize the 15 things in the comments or below the video. Because many do not have time for a whole video specially with all the ads because they might just be catching a flight shortly or they simply just dont have time for any other reason. Plus they might be more interested in seeing you talk about each of these 15 tips in more detail and Watching the whole video knowing which tips you got roughly beforehand
Amazing
Thanks!
Watched this before my trip from San Francisco to Orlando and found it very helpful. I have been flying since I was a kid (over 30 years) and always had a healthy fear of flying. Noticed it getting worse in the past few years. Tonight, focused on my breathing. When it got bumpy I thought about what he says about how truly normal turbulence is. In my mind I was picturing the cockpit being out of control while the flight attendants were just playing it off not to scare us passengers. Completely false.. bumps are not fun but in most cases they are inevitable and harmless. I repeated that to myself until I calmed down
Awesome! I'm glad you managed to get through it without too much stress :)
My grandparents go to Florida every year for vacation in October. A long time ago when I was like 8 or 9 they took all of use with them. It had already been planned at least 6 mouths in advance and this was 2001 so 9/11 was literally just a FEW WEEKS before our trip. My mom threw up that whole 2 hour flight physically ill from anxiety. I was young so I didnt really understand but now that I'm older and have struggled with it myself I could only imagine how bad that flight must have been for her
Thanks for the advice, I'm going to Hawaii on 12/3/22 & this will be my 1st flight ever lol I'm so nervous 🫣but looking at these kind of videos helps a lot with my stress & anxiety level thanks a bunch handsome sir 🫶🏾
No problem! I am a few days late to this comment but I hope your flight went well and you're having fun in Hawaii :)
How was it?? 🤍🤍
I’m going to fly next week.. even tho I’ve been taking a lot of planes throughout my life, I feel a bit anxious this time because it’s going to be the first time a fly by myself (its also a 10h flight)… I like company and the idea of not being able to talk to anyone but myself for that long scares me for some reason.. I get many panic attacks and they mostly occur when I start thinking about anxiety.. talking to people helps me from not thinking about it.. I’m going to bring many things that will keep me entertained during the flight and hopefully that will distract me from having those thoughts… I just hope the people next to me are going to be nice and friendly cause I love to talk and have conversations… and thank you for the video, it certainly helps 😁
Most planes these days have WiFi functionality as well, so you could probably message friends throughout the flight if needed. Stay positive, it sounds like you've got this though!
@@tylerjellis I hope so .. thank you so much!
How did it go??
When it comes to the breathing technique, mine is similar I just don't hold for as long as you...but whats crucial is that you place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach while breathing....when having an attack we tend to breathe with our chest. So if you feel/see your hand that is placed on your chest moving up and down while breathing you know you need to make a correction and bring it back to the diaphragm. You need to see your hand thats on your stomach moving. People often feel a chest "tightness" while having a panic attack and this definitely helps with that as well. Btw you're super lucky your attacks have only been about 10min. Mine have lasted HOURS before. Those are rare but it happens. Mine are typically around 30-45 min. Had this crap for 20 years so I'm pretty experienced. These are all great tips though 👌
Thanks for sharing those tips! Have you found that any sort of lifestyle adjustments (diet, exercise, etc.) or treatments have helped you decrease the length of those panic attacks over time? You're right, I suppose I am quite lucky that mine have typically peaked for no more than 10 minutes or so tops. They can be awful and I empathize with anyone enduring them much longer than that!
@@tylerjellis I haven't found that any particular diet has affected my anxiety....but when I'm in shape and working out, those periods tend to have less "unprovoked" attacks. (IE sitting on your own couch watching TV or during your normal routine etc) What I notice is education (facts and nothing but) seems to help the most because it sinks into the subconscious mind. Small, controlled exposure to what I'm afraid of also seems to desensitize and "train" your mind into realizing certain things. O e big one I learned way back during my agoraphobia phase, was that I was NOT having a heart attack...one day I decided to take a quick drive to Jamba juice and began to panic when I got back to my car....so I hit the gas and began to punch it! I noticed, that the closer I got to my house...the better I started to feel, and in THAT moment I realized that this thing isn't actually deadly, because I can assure anyone that heart attacks could care less how close you are to your house. So that helped ease my subconscious mind. I've also taken anxiety workshops and learned breathing techniques etc. Education and the will to fight back are key.
@@mrnuna4793 Awesome, thanks for sharing your experiences with anxiety. I've noticed the same things throughout the years; I find myself much less anxious when I am active, fit, and continually educating myself on mental health issues like anxiety.
You come across as a person with credibility. I can believe in what you say and that is really down to the way you say it. A lot of your gestures endorse this.
Thanks a lot! Being on camera doesn't come naturally to me, so I appreciate that. 😅
I am back from my trip it was not that bad i was less scared then i thought i would be
Awesome! It'll be even easier next time :)
Thanks for the video! The tips are really practical. I am having my first flight just in few days, and I am already feeling anxcious, so that I can't even sleep peacefully at nights... Last night I woke up few times, and I already had a panick attack even before the flight. It feels exhausted, and honestly, I don't want to fly at all. Even if I know the goal. What makes me even more anxcious is the thought that it's a flight with one stop. And I am afraid of heights. There are thoughts coming constantly about the flight, and I am already feeling scared. I've tried some tips to go out of this feeling, but the more quicker the flight approaches the more it is harder...
How'd it go?
@@richj011 it went fine! I was excited about the trip, the views through the windows, and when I came back home, I wanted to fly again 🤭
@@juratele That's awesome you should be proud!! so happy!
Great video man! I have my first flight since I was a toddler coming up in 10 days, and I suffer from extreme claustrophobia and a slight fear of heights, and some of these tips are really gonna help.
Thanks! I hope they are helpful, let us know how your flight goes
@@tylerjellis I’ll certainly check back in next week!
@@tylerjellis I was very anxious through the whole flight, but I made it safe! Had a panic attack before we took off and I HATED the feeling of the plane banking left and right but I’ll definitely be able to fly home
@@chrisstrohman4131 Hey! How was your trip back home? Have you flown more since then?
I’ve flown many times and it never gets easier, I’m flying in 2 days on my own for the first time and I’m already so anxious and close to tears. I’ve downloaded this to watch on the plane, thanks for your advice
I'm flying in a month and already trying to prepare for it. It's whack too because my flights are so short 2-3 hrs.
How did it go?
This is so helpful, thank you. Going to save the for my next flight if I feel panicky! How do you recommend dealing with turbulence waking you up? When I fall asleep I get used to the plane but then out of nowhere it scares me awake :(
No problem! Honestly, when I used to work as a flight attendant, I used to assure people that the turbulence they think is bad is NOTHING. Seriously, almost every day someone would say: "Is this turbulence scary for you? Is the plane okay in this?" And it would always catch me off-guard because it was usually just mild turbulence. The average flier doesn't have a good gauge of what is normal in-flight turbulence and what is severe. Just know that the flight attendants and the planes fly several times EVERY day. The planes can handle a whole lot more than you think... as long as the flight attendants don't look nervous, you're good!
going to be flying into denver in late march is it usually turbulent around that time of year?
Thank you for making this because dear god I am losing it
Thanks Tyler! My fear is sitting on the tarmac feeling stuck and out of control on the airplane. That’s when I get my panic attack. Once we move I feel ok. Completely irrational I know.
Thanks so much, 🙏I’m planning to travel in December and I’m having one right now just thinking about it.. what really calm me down is music and plus I have my meds but as you said try and calm b4 taking those meds.. and next thing you said is it only last for awhile I thought I would die omg! Thanks 🙏😘
No problem. You've got this! I hope you enjoy wherever you're traveling to in December :)
I'm hopping on my first flight ever this afternoon. The existentialism in tip #12 actually helped lol
Awesome! Sometimes weird little thoughts and realizations like that one can make a big difference. Hope you had a good flight!
@@tylerjellis it was great! I actually enjoyed it. I listened to music and looked out the window the whole time. All the shapes and stuff. Seeing water irrigation in the ground. It's awesome! Lol
@@mrshiznittle That's great! Glad you enjoyed it, it's really not as bad as a lot of people work it up to be in their heads.
@@tylerjellis For me, it's definitely because it's just a new experience. Taking the first step in anything is the hardest part. I equate it to just ripping off a band-aid
@@mrshiznittle Well good on you for getting it done and ripping off that band-aid! Unfortunately, a lot of people in your position choose to back out and avoid the situation, reinforcing the fear and making it into a worse phobia over time. Glad you were able to crush it, as I'm sure future flights will be a breeze for you now. Happy travels!
This. Is. Exactly what I was looking for. Thank you! I’m terrified of being stuck on the plane. Freaking out and causing a scene and needing to be duct taped lol. I’m flying soon. For the first time in 20 year. Super nervous and terrified.
I’m flying soon too! On 2/15 to be exact and it’s my first time flying since 10 years or more. So nervous.
@@bsp1502 I’m sure the anticipation is much worse than the actual experience. Please keep posted. It’s easier said than done but I bet you will do great. Even if you’re nervous.
@@jcdulos1 I'm hoping this is the case for both of us lol. Will post back after my trip!
Oh my anxiety comes from motion sickness and not the fear of the actual flying! I'm hoping some anti nausea stuff helps.
@@bsp1502 I take a dramamine an hour before I fly and find that it helps with any motion sickness. Also, some lemon candy is great if you start to feel sick!
I just might be the worst case of flying anxiety or scared to fly. I want to take just a short flight from NJ to Florida and I just can't bring myself to do it and it truly bothers me. I hate that I have this phobia. 😭😭😭😭 Mine is more claustrophobia and worried about a panic attack, making a scene or worse. And I love the technology, the engineering of these planes. I admire the pilots that take their job extremely seriously. They are awesome professionals. I still can't fly. 😭.
I’m having my first flight on the 4th October and I’ve just got better from panic attacks and agoraphobia but I’m afraid that when I’m on the plain I’ll have one. Also with my ibs… what if o have to go to the 🚾 when it’s going up?
It's about my physical symptoms that I get during turbulence 😢. And the loud noise. Feeling not being in control.
I’m not worried about my panic attacks and anxiety, it’s the plane I’m worried about, which leads to those attacks. I’ve done everything, but I can’t help but cry, scream, shake, and get those attacks. I’m flying out of Denver tomorrow, currently in the middle of a snowstorm, and I am shaking just watching this video. Trying to figure out how to naturally calm myself. I feel the dips during take off, turbulence, and landing, which lead to me screaming (I don’t like surprise drops, I fly with my hand over my mouth to cover incase a surprise dip hits, and I can try to catch my scream). And I cry from embarrassment and anxiety and fear of the feelings that the plane gives me, which lead to panic attacks after the plane does something uncomfortable. So, I’ll have several panic attacks, anxiety throughout an entire plane ride, stress, tears, and everything. 🥺 I don’t want to take medication, and I don’t drink, so I have to go through it with “natural ways,” but it NEVER gets easier, especially after a flight with bad take-off/landing/turbulence. Once the pilot announces that we will hit some turbulence, I feel like I have lost control of my reactions after that. It’s horrible.
How did it go. I fly out in two days and I'm extremely nervous. Plus I checked the weather and it says thunder and lightning and I'm scared of that as well
u cured me bro
Glad I could help!
Can someone answer me this.... Do we need to declare our medications?? I'm on Ativan, which is controlled. I know to have the original bottle but we never get a physical prescription, let alone to keep with it. And I saw in a list that controlled medications need to be declared. But is it only for a certain amount or something?? It takes me several months to get through one month supply (prn) so I'm not planning on taking much with me. Less than a month worth.
You are very cool about it, making it sound like what it really is: human nature.
Thanks! Agreed, it's totally normal to experience these things.
Im going on a flight, and I'm terrified of airplanes. My flight is today. I think this will help me with my phobia. Thank you. 😀
I hope it went well for you!
how did it go ?
Before the flight and iam feeling anxiety and feeling that the plane will crash and Iam getting very panic attacks what to do plzz help me bro
3:57 talking about doors. If it's Boeing, I ain't going
😂absolutely valid
I used to be a great a flyer and then a few years ago I had a couple of awful flights on my way to Tokyo, and vowed never to get on a flight again. Well this year I went om holiday with my kids and my anxiety was through the roof, not because of having to get on a plan again but because I had my innocent kids with me and of course imagining the worst...
Yeah, I totally get how that would be stressful. Hopefully, you got through it fine though? A lot of times we don't give ourselves enough credit for how strong we can be when we need to be.
i havent been on a plane since i was 12, i haven't been one since, until Next weekend, yah im already getting painic attacks, i have the massive fear of heights and fear of space (which is a double edge for me i love it and fear it.)
Think positive and try to apply some of the tips in this video. It may seem scary since it's been a while but I promise it's not as bad as you think!
Omg me too ;-;
First and last time I flew was in the year 2000. My fear of flying has stopped me from doing so many things.
I’m going into the airforce and ironically im afraid not only to die but also afraid of planes and elevators & being alone lol I hope these tips help with the plane part at least :)
Thanks for your service! I hope the tips help.
First time flying is to the place i always want to vist is new york im 28 first time flying is there in 2 months and im ready because of you but still scared
I remember when I went to my brother's wedding I had to take a short flight 40 minute flight. I was in a small plane tightly packed (every seat taken ) and when we were taking off a kid was scream and crying. I had a panic attack that I almost grabbed a strangers arm that was sitting right next to me . I used to fly all the time and I want to travel but I wish I didn't feel that way.
I went to Mexico 8 years ago no problem. Flew on many planes no problem. I have always been scared of heights. Time has passed and I am 38 years old now and I’m more of a hypochondriac/anxiety/claustrophobic. I don’t even like elevator’s anymore! Now for our anniversary my husband wants to go back to Mexico. I’m so scared of the airplanes. 😢
Unfortunately, new fears and phobias can develop seemingly out of nowhere after a lot of time has passed and we feel unsure about a certain thing or situation. Even though it's scary, please try your best to push past the fear, since avoiding it will only validate it and allow it to become even worse!
My fear is not about the dangers/risks that come with flying but with the actual sensations involved, such as the sudden loud engine noise when taking off (I understand it’s just the engines, what scares me is the sheer volume of the sound), the sudden speed in the runway, and the sinking feeling as the plane lifts off. But as soon as the plane is steadily gaining altitude, my anxiety lessens by a lot, unless we experience turbulence. The slight “dips” during landing don’t really bother me as they’re very gradual and happens only a little bit at a time.
Take long breaths to that helps or taking the window seat looking out the window that surprisingly helps also music to keep your mind off the flight and yea you will be fine
I am going on a flight from PA to Florida and I’ve gone on this flight before but some anxiety
You've got this!
My boyfriend and I are both about to fly together for the first time in less than a month. We're both incredibly anxious people. Thank you so much for this video. I know it's gonna be a scary experience because it's something new, but thanks for helping give us some advice about almost every single problem we've been worried about!
Did u live?
I never used to have a fear of flying, but hate the feeling of falling. One day I was on a flight where the turbulence was so bad, the plane felt like it was lifted up and dropped a few meters. Know how turbulence is it probably actually wasn’t that bad, but I got that terrible falling feeling in my stomach and that’s what gives me the anxiety.
Totally understandable, it can feel scary! But there's another way to look at it - you learned (the hard way) that those uncomfortable motions are harmless to the plane... could make it a little easier to deal with bumps in the future :)
TY for video. I haven't flown in over a decade. I have an anxiety disorder. Any suggestions flying again with a mask on? I'm very extreme. 😒
So, just a heads up, as of right now it's still mandated by the FAA that anyone onboard a flight wear a mask; so it's not even up to the airlines, it's just a law for now. If the mask itself is what's giving you anxiety, I like to think of it like this... When we're panicking, we often hyperventilate (overbreathe) because we FEEL like we aren't getting enough oxygen. However, the truth is, we're actually getting TOO much oxygen. That's why you sometimes see people breathing into a paper bag to calm down; they're trying to "rebreathe" some of that air so the oxygen/CO2 levels in their blood can rebalance. I look at the masks as almost a benefit to those with anxiety. The reality is, you're getting plenty of air through them. But, even if you were getting less oxygen, you could imagine that they are helping you from OVERBREATHING. Because, as mentioned earlier, too much oxygen (respiratory alkalosis) will wind up worsening symptoms of anxiety overall.
TY once again. I appreciate the detailed info and the time you take ..It's not just the mask unfortunately.
No problem! Actually a first-time flyer just commented on here the other day and said he was surprised that it wasn't as bad as he thought and he actually wound up enjoying it. Even if you can't get yourself to enjoy it (understandable), maybe you can find a way to plan your first flight in a while so it isn't that bad. Think about what bothers you the most about flying. Is it the turbulence? You could try to fly on a day when the weather is clear and on a larger plane that doesn't bounce quite as much. Maybe a shorter flight would be more tolerable for you? Maybe you could travel with friends to give some support? 🤔 Definitely practice some coping mechanisms like breathing techniques and visualization to help with anxiety.
My English is not good but try to share my problem need any help from you all I feel in plane that I am in box and cannot go out this makes me panic. And also I feel i am going to die because I cannot go out from this plane and especially in the last when we are landing safely and all people standing up and take there luggage that time I feel panic suffocated and nauseated
I'm nervous about gradually going into the sky into the air and the pressure and how ill feel in that moment do you guys have any tips for that?
Chewing gum or yawning helps you adjust to the pressure, but it's really not that bad at all! Avoid flying with a cold, while congested, or with an ear/sinus infection, as this is the only time the pressure changes are truly uncomfortable.
Okay thank you for the tip! @@tylerjellis
OMG I need you or someone like you to ride with me for my first flight. I am 31 and never been on a plane. I panic just watching videos of them and visioning myself on one. I NEED to get it over with and just do it. Just not sure how to push through the panic to actually get on a plane
Same
Lacey just face your fears and do it ! I’ve used to have panic in shopping malls, driving and of course flying. It’s all in your breathing and mindset. I fly often with no problems now.
I can't look down the length of the fuselage. It's like getting in a coffin. I can't do window seats, because I'm stuck inside. Then you are trapped. Once I flew in the backseat of a Cessna and if I had a door, I probably would have jumped out of it. My first major panic attack was at a window seat. I also don't like having the cart keeping me locked in. Every time I see one of these videos of people screaming at each other, I'm afraid that I might do something (amygdala fight/flight response) that I will regret if in the same situation.
The only time you need to worry when flying is when the pilot announces over the PA that it's time to worry. Lol.
Lol that's a great time to worry 😂
Going up scares me the most any tips for that
Don’t look down , deep breathing .
I know it may be difficult, but try to close your eyes, listen to some music, or even take a nap. Obviously, I am comfortable on planes so it's a bit different, but I am usually asleep before the plane even takes off. The feeling itself isn't bad at all, it's mostly just the thinking about it that makes it scary. The good thing is the actual act of taking off is pretty much over in a matter of seconds. Just focus on getting through those first few seconds and the rest should be a breeze!
isle person - closer to attendees- and calming myself that they have all kind of medications to help me if i will be in need -
Hello. I watched your entire video. I also suffer from anxiety and panic attacks. I went to the doctor, I had an EKG because I thought I was having a heart attack. The doctors told me that I was healthy, I was given medication (kventiax) to alleviate panic attacks. On Saturday I fly from Venice to Valencia, and from Valencia to Tenerife. I've been afraid for years. This will be my first ever plane trip and I can't get my head around it. I can't know what to expect. I am afraid that I will have a panic attack on the plane or at the airport itself, maybe even on the way to the airport. I'm not afraid of the plane crashing or anything like that. I'M JUST AFRAID OF AN ATTACK. Do you think it is wise for me to take an antidepressant (kventiax) before the flight itself? My attacks sometimes last up to 1 hour. Even when I take a pill, it takes 1 hour for the pill to start working. That's why I'm also afraid of having a panic attack on the plane because it will take a long time for the pill to start working.
Hello! I can totally relate to not being anxious about something, but rather the panic attack itself. Unfortunately, I'm not a doctor and I'm not personally familiar with that medication; so I really can't give you any good advice there. If there is a medication your doctor has cleared you to use and feel comfortable doing so, it may not be a bad idea to take it an hour or so before your flight. Just avoid drinking any alcohol if you do so; alcohol hits people harder in the air, and I've seen countless people get into trouble because they mixed booze and pills before flying! Good luck :)
@@tylerjellis Thank you for your advice. In principle, I already deal with anxiety very well and I don't need to take medicine every time I have an attack. I am able to process an attack even without medication, or rather I am able to sometimes not get an attack at all... However, I do not know how my body will react to flying, because this is the first time for me. I don't take anti-depressants anymore, but I still have these other pills to calm me down. If it's really necessary. I think this drug is called Quetiapine in your country. It works by putting you to sleep and calming you down. In the video, you said that if possible, you should not take the medicine at all and try without it. But it's good to have it with you... I'll probably try to take the medicine 1 hour before the flight, but I'd like to not need it at all. I don't know if you understand what I want to say. I know you are not a doctor and I value your opinion as a former anxiety patient. I would really like to face it and take a step forward in that direction to be able to do it without the need for pills. I haven't needed medicine for quite some time now (approx. 2 months). I appreciate your dedication to advising me and helping me in this case. The only thing I'm afraid of is having an attack.I do not drink alcohol at all, nor do I consume any other prohibited substances. That's why I will certainly not drink alcohol on the plane.
Turbulence always make me feel sick. Not scared but I have vertigo so its like a roller-coaster. Does the plane react differently flying over the equator?
Turbulence is based on changes in air pressure. In general, some areas can be a bit more turbulent than others due to atmospheric differences. I always found it to be a bit bumpier over water in more tropical areas. It's possible flying over the equator could be a bit bumpier than what you're used to, but I wouldn't stress too much. It's good that you're not scared; maybe dramamine or something similar could help?
I have to fly from Australia to Europe after being diagnosed with a chronic illness and I’m very scared , it is a 12 plus 8 plus 2 hours flight and I’m so so scared of something happening to me up in the air, doctors have told me I should be fine but I can’t stop thinking I’m going to die , any advice?
Hmm... Well, if your doctors say the illness won't affect your ability to fly, I wouldn't worry too much! Enjoy peace of mind knowing they'd tell you not to fly if they thought it would be an issue. Also, there are almost always a handful of medical professionals onboard in addition to flight attendants being trained in CPR. I'm sure you'll be just fine :)
My biggest problem when I am anxious of having a panic attack is the constant feeling of needing to use the restroom. How can I help with this? Is this a common problem?
I'll also feel like I need to go to the restroom when I'm nervous. For example, I recently went bungee jumping, and the whole time I was waiting in like I was bouncing around because I felt like I had to go. I think this is a pretty common symptom of anticipation anxiety; the anxiety we get while nervously waiting for something. It's pretty harmless, just a bit annoying. I usually just go to the bathroom, bounce around a bit, or try to take my mind off things.
you should look into toilet anxiety! this past year i started having panic attacks for the first time and something that came w it was toilet anxiety:(
I was completely froze during my panic attack. Just head down, face in my hands and crying. I couldn’t even ask for help.
I will be flying for the first time in 18 yrs - I developed a fear of feeling trapped and haven’t been able to go into a lift, tunnel, airplane, train, it has really restricted my lifestyle. Haven’t been able to see my grand babies overseas because of my fear of getting into locked spaces and I cannot get off immediately :( I am panicking excessively at the thought of flying and it has now affected my sleep. I am clammy and hyperventilate every time I think of the flight, pls help me :(
I used to be able to handle flying but now it terrifies me. A sardine can in the air, with turbulence; makes my heart race so hard it's hard to breathe. I tried distracting myself by reading and listening to music but nada
As a serious claustrophobe, i had my first flight with my partner which was around 2 hours, i was scared, but felt better that my partner was next to me. But now... in about a month, i have a 17 HOUR FLIGHT which i have to take ALONE...... im terrified. just thinking about it, im on the brink of a panic attack 😭 But thank you so much for some helpful advice, sometimes i need to ground and remind myself that ill be okay. 😊
omg 17 hours is cruel! hope everything works out okay and you’re not too worried on the flight🫶
Hi agoraphobic here 🥺 I’m travelling in a month and the thought of it is literally keeping me up at nights and I’m obsessing (it’s 1:50am now and this is what I am watching) currently I’m hoping for a way to get out of it, but I know I need to do this. My biggest fear is actually having a panic attack and it’s going to be so bad that I’ll need to go to the hospital and I just want to stay home. I just need some encouragement 📣 I’m glad I can watch these and read the comments just knowing I’m not alone because it definitely feels like that when everyone around you seems “normal” 😕
I've got a video on "anticipation anxiety" that might help. I know how much it sucks to ruminate about something weeks in advance. Try to remind yourself that every panic attack is temporary. Honestly, one of the biggest things that helped me stop having them completely was when I shifted from trying to avoid having one (which often makes them worse) to simply accepting that it might happen, but (just like every other one in the past) it would be over soon and I'd live to see another day.
@@tylerjellis thank you for responding and thanks for sharing hope ☺️ I’m working on it, and yea I’ll check your other video out because that’s where I am right now.
@@itsnessasary No problem! Let me know how it goes and don't hesitate to reach out if you need some extra support!
Worrying in advance is not realistic. It is the brain trying to control the outcome of the future situation, but it mostly miscalculates it (99.99% of the time). The best would be not to even think about the future event, and let the anxiety flow during the episode itself (if it will even do that). Often times, people won't even react anxiously in the airplane even though they assumed they would. Perhaps easier said than done, but this is just my case.
@@UKMBNG Agreed! I actually have an old video on "anticipation anxiety" that talks about this a bit. You're totally right.
I’m just scared to fly for the first time and at the same time I’m flying alone and I don’t really know how everything will feel I will be flying 19 june and it’s gonna be a long flight 😅
Being nervous and being excited can often feel really similar and mix together a bit. Try telling yourself that you're not scared, you're just excited! It's honestly a super incredible experience when you think about it... our caveman ancestors could only DREAM about the opportunity to fly haha
@@tylerjellis thank you so much I have been watching so much about planes from what to pack to what to do and not do on a plane so I myself can feel more safe and also been watching reviews of the airline I’m going with so I know what to expect and I can’t wait 😆
i really want to know how to overcome my fear of turbulence if the flight is a direct flight that takes more than 2 hours, especially 8 hours and 13 hours direct flights. Is it only the turbulence that I should fear?
You shouldn't fear the turbulence at all, it's like fearing the normal rocking of a boat in water :)
Just what you need, a flight attendant saying it gets way more intense than this,,,Get used to the plane noises and watch this video and some by pilots who explain what the whole thing is like and what the noises are about .