‘The slightest thing could set me off’

Hannah Bailey, 44, from Warwickshire, was crippled by panic attacks when she took a flight

‘For me, it wasn’t getting on the plane which caused an issue, but my behaviour once on board. I would obsessively run through a series of checks, which I thought would help me feel more in control. I’d always make sure I had a window seat so I could see that we weren’t falling out of the sky, and constantly watch the flight attendants to ensure they were taking their jobs seriously.

During the flight, the slightest thing could set me off – an odd noise, passengers moving around or, my worst fear, turbulence. I would have panic attacks – crying and totally shutting down from everyone, including anyone who tried to help. For a long time, I relied on alcohol to help during flights and some holidays were totally spoiled – I’d spend the whole time worrying about the return journey.

I think my fear of flying developed because my mum got distressed about it when we were children. My own daughter was in turn affected by my phobia.

It was only when I came across brain working recursive therapy (BWRT), two years ago, that things changed. BWRT works by erasing the triggers in the subconscious brain that cause your fear. Before, I was never able to fly alone, but I’m taking a four-hour flight solo this summer and it doesn’t worry me. My daughter’s anxiety has eased now, too.

BWRT was truly transformative, so I took a course and became qualified to help others overcome their own fears.’

Find out more at bluelightwellbeing.uk