Panic Attacks

Derek P. · Post by **Derek P.** » Fri Apr 11, 2008 12:24 pm

I am terrified of having a major panic attack next Wednesday because I am going to fly for the first time in my life. I am flying with our High School Band to New York City for their spring trip and I am scared to death of having a panic attack on the plane. I am closterphobic and I feel that getting on a plane will create a panic attack. Can anyone help me? I just ordered the program a few days ago and probably won't get it before we leave.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Fri Apr 11, 2008 12:48 pm

You have alot of company, Derek! I feel EXACTLY as you, even though I flew many times before I developed this condition.

There is a really good thread which you should look at, called "Anticipating....need encouragement." I think it might be of help to you.

Hang in there....you are going to be okay! You are definitely not alone.

stargazer · Post by **stargazer** » Fri Apr 11, 2008 2:57 pm

Derek P.
I totally relate!!!! Since you won't have the program before you fly I might suggest what has worked for me before I had the program. I would do some running before before the flight. Enough to burn off the adreniline that would surge during a panic attack. I would wear myself out physically so the panic couldn't go anywhere. I might start the "stinkin thinkin" but my body was tired and relaxed so I felt more calm. Also, tell yourself you will be calm (even if you don't believe it) because your mind doesn't know you don't believe it and will search to fullfill your suggestion that you are fine and it is going to be a great flight. I had claustrophobia also. But in reality I just hated being out of control. Tell yourself you have chosen to do this and you are in complete control. Bring things to distract yourself. Headsets or ipod work really good. Good Luck I know you'll do it. I did keep us posted we are all pulling for you. Your not alone. One out of 4 people feel the same way as you do and are just as nervous but hide it. God Bless
Kathleen

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Fri Apr 11, 2008 5:12 pm

I, too, experience the same thing. I found that taking a Gravol (Dramamine) or two really helped me to relax and also control any dizziness that you might experience with the elevation changes. Also, knowing that there was a bag in the seat ahead calmed me, knowing that I could use it to breathe in, if necessary, or if I felt sick.

Definitely take a headset or ipod, as Kathleen said.

Good luck and keep us posted.
Bink

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Fri Apr 11, 2008 6:14 pm

WOW!! Thanks so much for the encouragement and support. I thought all this time that I was the only one with such a serious anxiety problem or one of the few. This site is sooo wonderful and helpful and I know I will cure myself with the programs help and with everyone in the forums. Thanks again for the help and I will let everyone know how it goes.
Sincerely,
Derek P.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Fri Apr 11, 2008 8:19 pm

If if makes you feel more at ease have your Dr. prescribe .25 of Xanax and only take if you begin to feel bad. This stuff works in less than 20 minutes.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Wed Apr 23, 2008 11:39 am

Just wanted to let yall know that everything went absolutely great. Flying is the only way to travel!!!!!!! It was great!!!!! I started to have a small panic attack right before we got to the airport but I was able to take control of it and it passed quickly. I give God all the glory because he answered my prayers about this and I was able to enjoy myself.
Thank You God for being there for me!
Derek

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu Apr 24, 2008 11:30 am

Your news is THE BEST! Way to go, Derek! Now that you have discovered your wings, you can fly as high as your heart desires! I am so happy for you!