Flying Success!

[Titan4757]

Just got home from a work trip. I hadn't flown in two years and was avoiding flights due to panic and anxiety. I actually did quite well on the flights and kept calm for the most part. Smooth flights help. The two days leading up to the flights caused more stress and anxiety than the actual flying...go figure!

[azmarktb]

That's me and the dentist. Did you take emergency meds just in case

[Titan4757 in reply to azmarktb]

No meds. I don't trust them. I took my ipod and headphones and a book. Good luck with the dentist!

[azmarktb in reply to Titan4757]

Nor do I! F..k. had a minor panic attack in the grocery store 30 mins FOR NO REASON. Felt great all day then bam, it hits while simply walking in a store. Drove home. Downeda quick 5 beers. Feel better. Beer is my medicine

[Agora1]

Hey Titan, good for you You are so right in that

the hours before are always so stressful. You've come a

long way from 2 years ago. Continued success.

Where might you go next??

[Titan4757 in reply to Agora1]

Thanks, Agora! Next I'll go down to Tennessee and North Carolina. Those are both only one hour flights.

[Agora1 in reply to Titan4757]

That made me smile Titan. Once we take that step forward, there

is no stopping us. Alright!!

[Nori-R]

Hi, I had to reply to your post. I too just flew for the first time in 5 years by myself! Being in the crowded airport made me more anxious than being on the plane. The airline I took lets you pick your seats. I picked on both flights an aisle seat, 2 rows from the back, where there were 2 bathrooms and the flight attendants station. Knowing I could easily get up to move without walking over other people in my row, as well as being close to a more open space, where the bathrooms and flight attendant station was, was very helpful for me. Even better was once the planes were fully boarded, my whole row was empty, on both flights! I did have emergency medication, but didn't need it. It was great to read your post, it just goes to show there is HOPE!!!

[Titan4757 in reply to Nori-R]

Thanks, Nori! Congrats on your recent victory! I also pick my seat ahead of flight and usually aisle in emergency row because I'm 6'6" tall. I like to get up and move around at least an hour in the flight. I caught myself not breathing a couple times and had to regroup with slow breathing but no freak outs. I always think about the moment we land and the fun I will have at my destination. Thanks for your support.

[masa2333]

Just wanted to congratulate you for your first flight! I had my first panic attack while abroad so flying back home was like hell 🤣 and now I am scared to go anywhere but stories like yours give me courage that I will do it someday!

[Titan4757 in reply to masa2333]

Thanks Masa! It is strange because I've flown so many times in my life. 10 years ago it started to bother me for no known reason. I can't imagine being in another country and having to deal with panic attacks and the unknown plus you had to sit your ass on a super long flight back home. You will be back to yourself soon enough. Just remember you're still that person you were before panic and anxiety. I know you will push through this slight detour.

[masa2333 in reply to Titan4757]

I know, it started bothering me out of blue too! Even on short-duration flights. I would feel so uncomfortable in the past year or so, but I always thought that my blood pressure must have dropped or something (because my BP is usually very low). It is good to finally know what is going on with me, that itself puts me in a slight relief. Learning to accept and welcome my anxiety. 😊

[Missnoname]

Congrats! Hey, I was wondering if you feel the B complex is still working for you? I had good results with magnesium, but got lazy about taking supplements. I need to get started again.

[Titan4757 in reply to Missnoname]

Thank you, Missnoname! Yes, I just reordered more. I only take one pill per day and it does help with rib pain and nerves. I have magnesium as well. I always take them with dinner.

[Sharaybia]

That's great. I actually prepared for a flights months ahead but I never flew in a plane before. Days leading up to my flight I actually cancel it because I was scared but I'm hoping to actually make a flight this time

[Titan4757 in reply to Sharaybia]

Thanks, Sharaybia! It sounds like you're excited about going on your first flight. I suggest you go through with it. Have a friend go with you for a short trip on a weekend. There's lots of videos on youtube that walk you through an actual flight and go over the sounds and routine of flying. I wish you the best in your next adventure!

[Sharaybia in reply to Titan4757]

Thank you Titan4757. I am really excited I watched a lot of videos on YouTube and it looks easy. I was going go meet my father for first time in 27 years and I wanted to by myself.but I will try again because its something I want to do but I thank you for your support

[taylorj75]

Good to hear such positivity, I going abroad for first time in 5years,I'm trying not to think about the flight but just the fun I will have when I get there. To be honest the airport and waiting around are causing me the most anxiety. Just got to keep going forward

[Titan4757 in reply to taylorj75]

That's awesome! You're going to have so much fun. You're right everything leading up to the flight is more stressful than the actual flight. It's the same each time. Take off, landing gear up, hard climb to 10,000 ft, jet levels out and slows down, all electronic devices approved to be turned on and then they serve drinks. Smooth sailing.

[marsbarr]

thats great. isnt it wonderful

[Titan4757 in reply to marsbarr]

Yes it is!