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(JD) · Jan 02, 2010, 02:50 PM

No, you're not the only one with issues about this, far from it!

First let me suggest the idea of not going at all. You don't have to. It is a choice. It's a difficult one, but still, you have this option.

If you really think that by going you will receive more than the angst it will take to get there, then try going.

Can you contact your former T for this??? If not, surely tell your current T NOW. Maybe even call and leave a message, since you are suffering about this now.

I usually travel in a motorized wheelchair. I made the mistake once of not getting out of it to walk through a screener (special area for handicapped, but still in full site of all.) They patted me down while I was sitting in the chair. They always wipe my wrist splints and chair arms and wheels etc...but the pat down was difficult physically and psychologically. (Even though I used to do pat downs in my past life!)

Since we're the type to be a bit anxious already, they will pick us out anyway. Just maybe by having a note from your doctor regarding your anxiety disorder will help allay some of the screener's fears and make it easier?

Try and think about how short a time period it is for this process. Though it seems forever, it is generally a few short minutes.

I think you probably already do the rest of the stuff, with what you take and don't take, and how you dress and shoes and stuff. And with a funeral, it's going to be short notice. Can you purchase your ticket online and print off your boarding pass ahead of time? That will leave out the anxious time of waiting in line at that counter at least. Maybe carry an email from family notifying you of the death will help the screeners not be so worried about your anxiety?

Lastly, pray. The power of prayer can help I know. Let us know here if and when you go, and maybe our prayers will help you not be selected, and if you are at least not overreact as PTSD demands.