3 weeks to the flight - help!

Q: I am a nervous flyer and I'm going away in June. Every time I'm in the plane I can't settle. Even now it's 3 weeks away and I'm thinking of it already. Is there anything you could tell me to reassure me that it is going to be alright.

A: First of all, print out and use the fear of flying and panic pages from this website and work through them in the run-up to your flight. Here are some further tips:

Recognise that it is an irrational fear - road travel is dangerous but we all do it without much thought. Why make air travel any different - especially since it is safer.
Avoid alcohol - take medication if things are likely to be really bad.
Drink lots of water before and during the flight. And have sweets/mints to suck. A dry mouth is to be avoided: your brain takes this as a signal that the body is in danger and switches on the panic stations immediately.
Decide on your attitude in advance. Experienced flyers usually have the attitude

I want to fly because it is quicker

I am not in control of the plane so I have to allow the pilots to use their professional skills to look after themselves and the rest of us

If my number is up - and this one is going to crash - so be it.
If my number is not up that's great. Either way there is nothing I can do once I am in the plane except relax and wait to arrive.

Make a resolution to fully resolve your fears within a finite period of time after you arrive back. Best wishes for a comfortable trip.

Important: please read our caution regarding all health-related advice.

Fearful flyer about to fly