Scared of flying - tell me IABU!

[MeMyShelfandIkea]

I grew up doing lots of long haul flying without batting an eyelid (family living abroad). Then met exP who refused to fly at all, and somehow over the following 20 years I developed a severe fear of flying (maybe subconsciously so I didn't feel I was missing out?).

Anyway having met DH I didn't want him to miss out so I finally managed to get myself back on a plane 2 years ago (only a 4 hour flight each way) and again last year (2 hours each way). So it's not a phobia as such because I can get on a plane, but I feel sick and shaky throughout. Was prescribed diazepam but it didn't touch the sides. I already know all the stats about it being more likely to have an accident in the taxi on the way to the airport!

I'm due to fly again in two weeks - come and tell me how unreasonable I'm being for feeling terrified again! Someone must have some magic words to reassure my brain into accepting the reality of how safe flying is...

I'm exactly the same. I use Pherergan antihistamines. They make you a bit dozy. Look them up.

I read Allen Carr - The Easy Way to Enjoy Flying, which I found really really helpful.

Ot you could save the £3 and I'm sure lots of people will soon be along to help you calm down.

I didn’t fly for years either but had to bite the bullet last year fir a 7 hour flight. I took Xanax and it really helped, plus cabin crew knew I was really anxious so kept giving me the nod that everything was ok. It was my ASD son’s first time flying so I had to reassure him we were fine. We are flying again this year but will take Xanax again.

I'm the same

Going on a plane in August for the first time in quite a few years and also taking my children for the first time. I'm having an internal battle with the idea of putting my most precious things in a situation that my irrational mind considers highly dangerous.

I took lots of diazepam when I first flew again after an incident that made me into an extremely nervous flyer. I think it was about 20-25mg you probably need to increase your dose to a point where you don't feel nervous.

over the past 10 years, I have gradually reduced the amount down and when I last flew a few months ago I did it on only 1mg. eventually it will be such a small amount that I can give up but will always carry it with me just in case.

go back to your gp. explain that you need a stronger dose and see what they say. the books, dvds, hypnotherapy, flying days with airlines etc all made next to no difference to me so whilst they worked for others I found them to be a bit useless.

Thanks for the replies - I think I'll try the more drugs option!

I have been terrified of flying my whole life (I'm 47). A complete phobia.

However, I decided to conquer my demons and booked a flight. I don't know why I changed my mind and booked but I suddenly felt that I had to do it. That there's a big world out there that I'd like to see.

I went on holiday with 2 friends. I sat in between them. It was ok. I coped. It was a total relief. My friends were amazing with their support.

I did get Valium but I didn't take it in the end.

I did use an app for 2 weeks before. It was a fear of flying one that I listened to when I went to bed. I think it really helped.

I've now booked a holiday to New York for later in the year. My dh is thrilled.

My friend went to see a clairvoyant who told him categorically that he definitely did not die in an aeroplane crash.

It worked for him!