Overcome Flight Anxiety

Anxiety about flying is an extremely common phobia. It's also very problematic when flying is required for work or family commitments. However, you have some easy tools to make your fear managable.

Steps

 * 1)   Pinpoint the source . What is it about flying that makes you nervous? Is it being trapped in a small space? Fear of an accident in the air? Or anxiety about heights? Try to be as specific as possible about what you fear.
 * 2)   Educate yourself 
 * 3) * You'll have facts to soothe your fears. If you know how rare airplane crashes are, for example, you can soothe yourself by repeating in your head how high your odds are of arriving safely.
 * 4) * Pick an extra-safe airline. It's easier to calm yourself when you know the airline you're flying on has never had an accident.
 * 5) * Learn safety tips. Knowing you're prepared for a disaster, no matter how improbable, is comforting.
 * 6)   Mentally practice . In a safe, comfortable spot, close your eyes and visualize the process of taking the flight. Imagine the whole process going smoothly, from the security checkpoints to baggage claim at your destination.
 * 7)   Create a soothing routine  while waiting for your flight. Make sure it's something you can repeat in the air if needed. Meditate, do some some seated yoga, or repeat a favorite poem or prayer to yourself.
 * 8)   Distract yourself . Bring along a good book, favorite music, or an activity (such as a sudoku book, a portable sketch kit, or needlepoint). Concentrate on your activity instead of the fact you're on the plane.
 * 9)   Travel with someone  if possible.

Tips

 * If you have a travel companion, make sure they're calm about flying!

Warnings

 * If your anxiety is severe, and you're experiencing panic attacks or a debhilitating fear of travel, seek professional help.