Fly or stay home

[stovall1992]

So my mom has an upcoming trip to Washington, D.C. and I really want to go. However, I’m nervous about getting on a plane. I haven traveled anywhere since I started having anxiety, and I have left the house three times since May 16th, which was my first time leaving the house since December. I have some Ativan the ER doctor gave me, so I could take that, but just thinking about being in a plane, and having anxiety symptoms, and anxiety causes me to have shortness of breath, and I don’t want to get winded while walking through the terminal (I don’t have a fear of flying; I have been suffering from agoraphobia for months). I really don’t want to take prescription medication, so I have been going the natural way.

On the other hand, staying at home alone kinda freaks me out as well. Last time my mom went out of town, I had a panic attack, and had another one three days after she returned. Even if I do stay home, Ill still be dealing with anxiety, alone. I could stay with a friend, but I would feel like a burden. So I don’t know what I should do: go with my mom, stay at home alone, or stay with a friend.

[kenster1]

hi if you could do this it would be a great leap forward in your recovery.my next option would be to stay with your friend.i would go for it and fly with your mum.flying is the safest mode of travel as well.

[stovall1992 in reply to kenster1]

yea, I’m leaning towards flying with my mom as well. I’m just nervous that I’ll get an anxiety attack on the plane.

[hypercat54 in reply to stovall1992]

Well what's the worst than could happen if you did? I am sure everyone would be very sympathetic, and you know it won't kill you or anything. Your mother will be with you and you can rely on her help too.

My advice is to go and enjoy yourself. x

[stovall1992 in reply to hypercat54]

that’s true. I just would hate to feel anxious and out of control in the plane, and totally worn out afterwards. but I know it won’t kill, so I guess just go and enjoy my flight

[hypercat54 in reply to stovall1992]

Good. If you don't worry so much about an anxiety attack it will take some of the anxiety away, and you will feel more in control next time. x

[Txnut60]

There is no “ go natural” when your having a panic attack. Take the Ativan and it will keep you calm!

[stovall1992 in reply to Txnut60]

that’s true. When I first got the Ativan, I took one a day for two days, but stopped before I didn’t want to get hooked on it. But I know I can take it as needed, so having it to take before a flight can be helpful, I guess

[JAYnLA in reply to stovall1992]

Take it an hour before your flight. It will really help.

[stovall1992 in reply to JAYnLA]

okay, I could try that

[Calm_mama]

I know these feelings of fear! Been there. So glad I ignored them.

Understand that anxiety on the plane won't hurt you in the least. Uncomfortable, yes. Dangerous? Not at all. The way to get your anxiety to start backing down in general is to go bravely forward towards things like this trip, and feel anxiety in all its glory if it shows up- with as little fear of it as possible.

Sounds like a fantastic adventure. Try not to overthink the travel part. Focus on what fun, exciting things you'll do in DC. It's a fabulous place to visit!

🏛🇱🇷👍🏻🤗

[stovall1992 in reply to Calm_mama]

Easier said than done. I don’t want to feel uncomfortable on the plane because that will cause more anxiety. But I understand what you are saying. I just need help control my anxiety symptoms. They are strong. I was diagnosed with Anxiety with Somatization.

[Hidden]

Stay home