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Fears and Phobias 3: Fear of Flying
Photo Credit: Ian Muttoo
One of the usual treatments is to use a short-acting anti-anxiety medication. Another effective treatment uses what is called desensitization techniques. In this method, individuals are gradually introduced to the idea of flying while, at the same time, they learn to use relaxation techniques.
First, the person is taught how to relax and once that is mastered, the next step is to gradually introduce them to the idea of flying in a plane. It's systematic desensitization in that the idea of plane travel is followed by photos of planes, then there may be a trip to an airport, then to a plane without taking off and, finally, they are taken for a ride in a plane. This may be done in a group or with a therapist on a large plane. The idea is that you can't be relaxed and anxious at the same time and that once you've conquered your fear of flying by actually flying, you are now in control.
Some of the other techniques involved the use of audio or video tapes of flying before any actual flights take place and there may also be a virtual plane ride via computer simulation.
Related Topics: Technorati Tags: aerophobia, fear of flying, phobia, panic attack, health and wellness
3 Comments:
It all sounds very good, Dr Farrell, but in the end it would not work for me. It isn't the getting on the plane or imagining it taking off that keeps me from flying, it's that the liklihood of surviving a crash is near zero. I know that cars crash more often, have heard that argument for years; but the survival rate is much better in a car crash. Also, the idea of sitting on a plane that is in trouble and going to crash... those last terrifying minutes, waiting for it....the thought is just too overwhelming. I don't think there is anything to treat my fears about it.
Xanax would help but if that plane goes down and I do have a chance of survivial then I want to be in full control of my faculties to help me.
I have not flown in over 20 years. I moved far away from my family a few years ago and can't visit because I can't fly.
I have a brother who is a retired commercial pilot and travelled the world as an international pilot. He's told me all the good things about flying and flying safety.
I want my feet on the ground and probably most importantly, I want to be in control of the 'vehicle'.
MulitTasker
i am so afraid of birds, and i have two outside cats who love to bring me birds i take anxiety meds but what is this bird thing and how can i get over it???
To Multitasker;
I know exactly what you're going through. My husband and I both take Xanex before flying. It just takes the edge off and really doesn't make me sleepy. Regarding the being in control part, you aren't. Control is an illusion. My brother-in-law is a psychologist and helped me realize that. I make that my mantra when flying and it helps a little. Now I read that the back of the plane is the safest but I hate the turbulence. So I just take my Xanex and roll with it! Good luck, and don't miss out on life because of your fear!
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