Have you ever felt too anxious to take that planned trip? Or, even if the anxiety has never stopped you from going on a trip, do you know someone who has?
Traveling may be stressful for everyone at times, but when an anxiety disorder is present, simple travel tasks such as packing and getting to the airport can become huge obstacles.
What are anxiety disorders?
Anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder and agoraphobia (a fear of crowds and open spaces), often make it difficult for people who suffer from them to do simple things like go out in public or venture far from home. People with anxiety disorders are unable to control their anxiety enough to take the trip. This is why it’s difficult for someone with agoraphobia to go on a plane but relatively easy for them to spend time in the security of their home.
If you suffer from anxiety or know someone who does, check out these tips for traveling with anxiety disorders
Preparing to travel
Sometimes knowing what to expect and doing some groundwork can help ease your mind before the trip even starts. Try researching the places you’ll be traveling and familiarizing yourself with common public transportation and attractions ahead of time.
If you have a phobia, such as a fear of flying, learn all you can about it before your flight so that there are no surprises when the plane takes off. If necessary, get professional advice from a therapist to help prepare for traveling with an anxiety disorder.
Taking supplements
If you’re traveling by plane, it’s a good idea to have airport security in mind. Many people with anxiety disorders find that taking certain supplements helps them cope better during the screening process. CBD oil, for example, has been found to help alleviate issues with anxiety during security screenings. There are various ways to take CBD, you can choose one that is most convenient for you.
Taking medication
If you have a diagnosed anxiety disorder and are taking prescription medications to control your symptoms, it’s important to keep track of these when you travel. Pack all your prescriptions in your carry-on bag, not in your checked luggage. Keep this in mind in case your checked luggage goes on a different flight or gets lost altogether.
If you are taking medication for anxiety, make sure it’s readily available. When traveling by plane keep them with you at all times. Put the name of the medication inside one of your shoes within your carry-on bag so they’re easily accessible to security agents.
Keep a journal
It’s likely that you may have some anxious feelings as you’re traveling. To keep track of these emotions, try writing in a journal during your trip. Seeing your anxiety written down on the page can help remind you that those feelings aren’t permanent and will go away with time.
Just remember to bring the journal with you on the plane so you have it for your journey home.
Taking deep breaths
If you suffer from panic attacks, try taking slow, controlled breaths throughout the entire flight to calm your body down. Just make sure you don’t take too deep of breaths or sit too close to other passengers that can be affected by your breathing pattern. It’s helpful to carry something on the plane that you can use to fan yourself if it gets too hot.
Stay hydrated
Whether you’re traveling by plane or car, be sure to bring along some water. Staying hydrated will help your body and mind stay calm throughout the trip. If you’re taking a long road trip, pack some healthy snacks and stop every few hours to take a quick walk.
Traveling with anxiety disorders can be hard enough by itself. With these tips in mind, however, your next trip should go more smoothly than you ever thought it could.
Take your time when traveling and enjoy the moment instead of worrying about what’s ahead. If you can, try not to go anywhere alone for the first few trips because it will be much harder to find your way back if you get lost or are unable to ask for directions.