Can I post this here?

[PRINCESS VIJA]

Well, this is in relation to health... my mental health LOL!

Anyway I guess I am posting this here because I consider you guys all my family.


We are going to be flying to WDW. And I am TERRIFIED! I have flown before, but not for a while. Initially we were going to fly, then we changed our plans because I was soooo scared and already unable to sleep, then when I added on our DCL cruise, we have to fly to get it all in. This trip isn't for a long time, and I am already stressed out. How am I ever going to make it without freaking out on the plane????? I am seriously considering asking my MD for some vallium to help me through. Thanks for letting me vent.

 

[KathyTX]

Oh, Vija- I really don't want to see you go through 6 months of worrying about the flight!

Have you flown before, or had a bad airplane experience before? Or is this a big anxiety that's kept you from ever flying?

Of course you know how safe flying is, statistically. I know that doesn't make the worry go away...

I think that it would be okay to talk to your doctor and see if he'll give you a Valium for the flight down and one for the flight back if you think that's the only way you can stand it. But I don't like the way any of those drugs make me feel, and I'd rather be a little nervous than to feel "weird".

You would most likely only find the takeoff and the landing the least bit stressful. It's pretty soothing when you're just cruising along...

 

[DiznEeyore]

Vija, I really am not a huge fan of flying, but for some reason, I do enjoy the airports! LOL Weird! I also *love* how much quicker my vacation starts when we fly -- 2-1/2 hours vs. 1-1/2 days on the road!

If you really feel you'll need something to help you relax, may I suggest Xanax as an alternative to Valium? My dr. prescribed a tiny dose (.25 mg) and all it does is make me a little sleepy, so I sort of doze through the entire flight. We're there before I know it!

No matter what you do, remember that you'll be with your family and we're all in God's hands. And that you're going on a fabulous vacation -- it will all be worth it!

 

[TigH]

Xanax!

My mother is petrified of flying. BUT she really wanted to go to England with my Dad to visit his family and to see the country. Xanax helped her!!!!! Go get some!

 

[PRINCESS VIJA]

thanks everyone. I'll have to ask the md about xanax.

Kathy,
Yes, we have flown before. Even long distances, we flew to Europe in 1992. It is just general anxiety. It is just getting worse and worse. Any time I see commercials on tv for airlines I just start worrying. And I saw a Bunch yesterday.

 

[Kabuli1]

Vija,

Valium works great for me, Xanax works great for someone else. As with anything like this (ie. sea sickness remedies) try whatever it is out BEFORE your trip so that you can see how it works for you. You don't want to be a zombie for a day or two if that's how your body reacts to a medication. For me some meds take a full 24 hours to clear my system - and your time on your trip is valuable.

And don't feel bad about being scared to fly - just try not to worry about it from now till when you leave. We fly alot, and I am always a little scared - and my DH laughs at me. But sometimes, it's the only way to get there. If it took Valium or Xanax to get me there calmly - I'd have no hesitation about taking it.

Karyn

 

[TigH]

Karyn has a great point - try the medication ahead of time to see how you react to it!!! Thanks, Karyn! I think that is a very important thing to do!!!

 

[nativetxn]

I have never had a fear of flying so I probably won't be much help for you. How about a {{{HUG}}}? That's the best I can do right now.

I have a dear friend who is terrified of flying, I think she make take a sedative before her flight.

If your trip isn't for a long time, perhaps you should try channeling Scarlett O'Hara? You know, "I can't think about this today, I'll think about this tomorrow. After all, tomorrow is another day." I love that movie. It's a good idea, too, when you are worried about something

 

[PAdisMOM]

I feel exactly the same way about flying. I can do it, but I really hate it.

We were going to fly to Disney for our next trip. Then Sept.11th happened and that very day I sadi, "We're driving!".

What helps me is sitting in the airport and noticing how unconcerned most people are. Even little children. I keep telling myself, "These people do this eery day. They are not afraid. I shouln't be either."

It's good enough to get me on the plane. I still don't enjoy the flight!

 

[Mackey Mouse]

I am also afraid to fly but the thoughts of driving from MA outweigh my fear......I have gone to fear of flying courses and then chickened out at the end when you are suppose to take the mini flight to NYC... could not do it... I have taken the train to Orlando and I would never do that again........just so long from Boston...

So.. I bucked myself up and went to my doctor.........told her about my fear and she prescribed Ativan, I take one pill about an hour before the flight, it takes the edge off and sometimes I actually sleep...........I have to tell you I fly all the time now.. I am not a great flyer but I do it.. I suggest if possible you fly an airlines that is a little roomier than others.. ask for the exit seat, more leg room.. but you have to be at the airport early to get that seat and in person.. cannot be done over the phone... I like to sit up closer to the front, it just makes me feel better.. I have to sit at the window.. don't ask me why... I think it makes me feel less claustrophobic... No one is more afraid of flying than I am, I do not think I could do it by myself, but my husband holds my hand and I just do it... Hugs... if you need to talk, I am only a pm away..

 

[KathyTX]

Vija, someone posted this link on the Transportation Board:

Fear of Flying

It's an online, free course to help folks who feel like you do.

Here's a little introductory blurb from the home page:


Many people develop fears as they get older and life itself seems more precious. Others have lived with fear their entire lives. Regardless of when fear develops, those who suffer can experience sleepless nights, elevated anxiety, and fear of panic attacks. They report feeling everything from mild discomfort to extreme terror.

Often times friends and family can't understand the problems caused by a fear of flying. Fearful fliers react to a lack of feeling in control, as well as weather, turbulence, flying over water, claustrophobia, crowds, losing control (panic attacks), terrorists, hijackings, fear of falling, and fear of heights. Many times fears are caused by a lack of understanding about what to expect during flight. Most fearful flyers just need a little help in the form of education, reassurance and guidance.


Maybe you'll find some comfort there...

 

[AlreadyexcitedGrammy]

take all the advice of the WISHers. I don't have a fear of flying but I am "just awful" in the car! I use my passenger brake and my DD and DH both say I make them a nervous wreck. I hate the feeling that I have and I try to close my eyes (and I do better if I do that). So, I say try some relaxation exercises too along with all the other great advice, and practice before the trip.

I know that it is easier said than done (because I have given up my fear in the car so many times and I still revert to it) but will be thinking positive thoughts that you can begin thinking that it will be okay and you can do it!!