Expert tips on supporting the anxious flier in your life.
That being said, how anxious fliers present themselves varies widely.
And what happens if youre an anxious flier yourself?
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Heres what experts recommend to keep calm and carry on while in-flight.
Related:7 Travel Anxiety Tips to Relieve Stress, According to a Psychiatrist
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- you’ve got the option to also encourage them to speak to their doctor about options for medication.
Talk to flight attendants and crew.Matthews recommended having the anxious flier tell the flight crew that theyre anxious.
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When someone is anxious, it’s important to validate how they are feeling before anything else.
And when suggesting an activity, Matthews said to limit yourself to one or two choices.
It can be difficult to make decisions when anxiety is heightened.
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So instead of asking, “What movie do you want to watch?”
Try asking, “Which sounds better, X or Y?”
And be sure to bring comfort objects, or what Crain calls transitional objects, with you.
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And its a good idea to celebrate any leaps or successes.
Ask them what went well for them and what didn’t go well for them.
This will help them process the experience and make adjustments for the next time they fly.
Allow for adjustments to post-flight plans.
Others may take awhile to get their appetite back.
Recognize how you are feeling and take care of yourself.
Maybe you need some time to yourself, a nap, or to talk to someone about your feelings.
If yourebothanxious, make a collaborative plan ahead of time.
Make a pact that you will not focus your conversations on how you are feeling about the flight.
