FLYING FEAR PUTTING ME OFF HOLS

Dear Coleen

I am due to go on holiday to Portugal in a couple of weeks and then Washington in the US in September, but I am terrified of flying.

I used to be a nervous flyer, but only when taking off. Now it’s getting ridiculous! I go into panic mode to the point where I feel like I’m going to have a heart attack.

Should I cancel the holidays?

Coleen says

I actually think the only way to manage your fear and overcome it is to face it and keep flying. And there’s lots of support out there for nervous flyers.

You might not have time to do one of the airline courses where you’re given a talk by pilots and taken for a short flight, but it might be worth considering at a later date. Your doctor can also help by prescribing a low dose anti-anxiety medication, which takes the edge off your panic and helps you relax, so make an appointment before your trips.

Cognitive behavioural therapy is really effective at helping people cope with anxiety. Some GP surgeries run group CBT sessions, but you might have to wait a while for a place.

It’s worth trying a course of hypnotherapy, too. I think if you want to overcome this fear, there are lots of avenues to try.

I also think admitting how you feel can make a difference – tell the airline and cabin staff that you’re a nervous flyer and they’ll do everything they can to help you relax and feel comfortable on the flight. Distraction is a great tool too – try getting immersed in a book, music, writing or a movie.

And if you’re flying with a partner or friends, then they can help reassure you, too.

One last tip – sit at the front of the plane where bumps and turbulence aren’t felt so keenly.

I think it’s great you’re not avoiding flying and have booked the holidays, and you’ll have a great time when you’re there.