Jetting off to a summer vacation is supposed to be fun, right? But if you’re one of the 25 million Americans who fear flying, the thought of getting on a plane can make your stomach do the samba.
There are steps you can take to reduce your fear of flying, says R. Reid Wilson, author of “Achieving Comfortable Flight: Taking the Anxiety out of Air Travel.” His advice:
Know the odds are in your favor. Most people feel safer in a car, but you’re actually 19 times safer in a plane.
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Accept your feelings. When you get anxious or panicky, tell yourself, “It’s OK. I expect to be nervous right now. I can handle this.”
Stay positive. If you start thinking “What if something goes wrong?”, instead tell yourself, “Turbulence may feel uncomfortable, but it’s not dangerous.”
Breathe. Completely exhale. Take a deep breath. Hold your breath to the count of three. Exhale slowly and relax your muscles.
Do something! Take some fun activities with you: a book, a puzzle or your favorite music. When the seatbelt sign goes off, stand up and stretch or take a walk. In other words, don’t just sit there and worry.