Going on a weekend trip and freaking out help

[Hotmessmama]

Ok so I'm suppose to go on a weekend trip to Chicago from PittsburghI am completely a mess my anxiety is thru the roof. I've tried all the popular things to try and calm down nothing seems to be working. Breathing counting mindfulness distraction nothing helping. We are driving cause I'm afraid of flying. Does anyone have any suggestions. I don't want to go all the way to Chicago which I've never been and not be able to leave the hotel room ugh. I'm so sick of being trapped by this anxiety

[cashew78]

Maybe simple distractions along the way? I know it sounds silly, but my brother and I would play 'the cow game' when we had long car trips through rural areas; you count the total cows you see on your side of the road, the most cows win. You can change cows for cars, restaurants, gas stations, make complicated scoring schemes, etc. And, as an adult, you can afford actually prizes! The idea I'm suggesting is simple distraction so you have something fun (albeit silly) to look forward to and something fun along the way, all to keep the anxiety at bay because you're engaging in something else. And, when you get to your destination, maybe the same silly games can be applied to whatever is around during your visit. Anxiety doesn't like to compete with other thoughts; it wants to be the only one. So maybe this won't let that happen as easily. It's an idea. Good luck, you can do this 😉

[Artistfriend]

Keep in mind the frustration you feel at feeling trapped, that can be a good reminder for me too.

Its about making it through the trip even with anxiety, even if you stay in the room most of the time

[scansnap]

It sounds like you are suffering from a generalized anxiety disorder. You may want to consider meditation or do some reading on books about dealing with anxiety. If you are able, I would recommend seeing a therapist for more thorough evaluation and treatment.

[punkster]

I can relate to your anxiety about trips. I always get anxious, but in the end, I'm glad I went. I find that going to places and seeing things I've never seen before gives me perspective on my anxiety. If you feel overwhelmed, take small breaks in the room. I am going to go overseas in a few days and I am anxious about it. I don't do well with jet lag, and I have health anxiety. I will mask up in the airport and in crowded places. I am just going to take it one day at a time, or one hour at a time if I need to. You CAN go on this trip. Afterward, you will feel like you conquered your anxiety and like you have taken one small step.