Fear of flying

[Calaid]

Looking for some advice... I used to be ok with flying when I was younger but it seems each time now I'm more frightened. The last time I was so bad I had to have a few drinks but still ended up crying! It wasn't so bad as I was just with my bf but next week we are taking the kids away. My youngest is 5 and I don't want to get upset in front of him. I was wondering if anyone has the same problem and can you recommend anything that I could take that wont turn me into a zombie but would help me cope?

[bollie]

Go and see your doctor, they will give you a mild sedative (does not make you sleep, just takes the edge off of the anxiety) my dr was fantastic, when i was in your position.xxx

[Calaid]

Thanks Bollie, I was worried they would think I was daft and wasting their time. I will get an app on monday.

[Pisceangirl]

They may prescribe you diazepam...you have to 'test it out' before your journey so you can take sufficient amount to calm you but stay alert enough for your children. It takes the edge off your fear and you'll probably even find yourself looking out the fire exit doors down at the land below, marvelling at how amazing it looks from so high up (like I did!)! Hehe! Have a nice holiday! :)

[kittenlittle]

I take Valium, as long as you don't take too much, you wont go to sleep and will be able to function just fine. I don't feel like a zombie and I am able to get straight on with my holiday. It is a great thing, take it half an hour before your flight (and hope you don't get delayed!) I go from a petrified phobic, who panics when I see a plane on tv, to a calm and collected traveller! You know that you would normally be afraid, but can't think why! I also end up looking out of the windows and laugh at turbulence. Good luck! BTW, about 6- 8 mg per flight?

[Calaid]

Thanks for your advice guys, made me laff!! I don't feel so bad knowing that I can get help and I might actually enjoy it! (well to bear it would be enough). Cheers.x

[Dassie]

Try and understand WHY you're frightened. It's normally......a fear of heights.......claustraphobic tendencies but mainly...the lack of control over the situation. In a car you drive and are in control and can see where you are going but in a plane you look sideways and leave it in the hands of the pilot. That is normally the fear factor. And yes, diazepam ( valium ) will help but I suggest you take 2mg before you leave for the airport and then 5mg, 30 mins before boarding but don't drink any alcohol.