[bluesycorax]

Hi, I was hoping for some advice or something. I have to leave my home and get on a plane, stay away for fives days and then come home. I'm not sure I can do it really. I know the breathing exercises and stuff but anyone knows any other coping skills. I'm not scared to fly but I do have problems leaving my house and the further away I get the harder it will be. Plus I will be gone for five days. It is really important that I do this for many reasons and though I have tried to convince myself that I don't need to go, I know I will hate myself if I don't, so will family members. Any suggests no matter how silly will be considered. But I'm running out of time and I can't screw it up this time.

what about taking some comfort items from home- stuff that reminds you of it.. so when you start to get anxious, you just have to hold it in your hands or what ever

nothing big... just a teddy bear or something (if you have one)

try and think... when i get back, everything is just going to be how i left it

good luck

[OrangeMoira]

You are very brave to take such a big trip when it is difficult to even leave the house. Yay for you! Try not to listen to the part of your brain that talks you out of things; I know it's so hard.

Can you distract yourself with music, games, or books? Do you have something you can squeeze in your hands when you are scared? Do you knit or do anything with your hands?

Can you repeat something comforting to yourself? "I can keep going even though my body is having anxiety sensations" "I will make it through this" "I am secure in body and mind" "I am powerful and can tolerate this just a little but longer.". It helps if you choose words that feel right to you and make you feel strong.

Be sure to take time alone for breathing exercises and things if they help. And congratulate yourself along the way for what you accomplish!!

Hi, are you going to be traveling with someone or by yourself? It would be good to have someone there with you for moral support. If you travel alone, you could try to chat with your seat neighbor to make the time go by faster. Breathing exercises are very important and I'm sure it will pay off that you have been practicing them. If you notice that you start getting anxious, try to move around and stretch so you get rid of the adrenaline rush faster. Also keep yourself hydrated..if you like drink herbal teas for anxiety (Lavender, Chamomile, Peppermint). Try to be prepared as much as you can and bring things you might need to soothe yourself. Write down positive affirmations in a notebook and bring it along with you to read it in case you panic. You can do it!

[bluesycorax]

I am travelling alone because I don't trust anyone not to make it worse and my flight is just when the sun comes up so hopefully few people at the airport. Its really the other people I have a problem with. Even the cab driver will be a problem for me but it will still be dark. I will take my smallest bear, no caffeine, and will be listening to an audiobook with headphones. Maybe sunglasses but I will have them if I need them. The notes thing is also a great idea since I like to write when I freak out. It kind of takes me away because I can't concentrate on the people and writing at the same time.
Two of my family members are fading from this world fast and it will be probably the last time I ever see them. I have to go I know that. I don't need anymore guilt and that would be a big guilt trip.
I didn't realize how stressed out I am. My exhusband got out of prison after 6+ years and has been calling and emailing me. He is not allowed in my country which is some relief though it didn't stop him last time. I don't think he knows where I live but he hasn't asked which makes me wonder. Now xmas and this trip. Though one kind of gets rid of the other at least for 5 days. I know I can do it cause the people I really respect in this world are going to be checking out soon and I need that time with them I know. I know it sounds kind of sick but the good part about all this is that both of them have neurological diseases and they no longer know who I am or what is going on. That actually makes me feel safe in a strange kind of way.
So I leave in 7 hours and just want to thank you guys for helping out. I hope you have great holiday season and a wonderful next year.

I hope your anxiety won't be too bad. I'm sure you will manage it though and you are going to be so proud of yourself when you get there. It is already very brave of you to want to do this. All the best