Terrified of flying and going on a plane...any tips?

So without writing a novel, I'll just say I had a very bad experience on a plane years back (like 7) and have refused to step foot on one ever since.

I love traveling, I love seeing new places, and sometimes you just *have* to get on a plane to get where you want/need to be. I'm taking my 11 month old to see my Sister in another state next week. I decided a while back (when we purchased the tickets) that it was time to get over my phobia. Thing is, I'm almost terrified. I have a history of anxiety/panic attacks and I know my fear will turn into that. I don't need to be panicking on a plane, especially when I have a baby with me. Does anyone have any tips or tricks on how to cope with this?

Hey there!
I completely understand your anxiety about planes! I also have a very hard time flying, even though I've been on planes every since I was a little kid.
My most recent flight experience was so anxiety provoking that I threw up before take off.
I find that it really helps to take a huge bag of comfort items with you. Things that make you feel more comfortable and take your mind off the idea of being on a plane. I like to bring a bunch of books and stuffed animals. Also some pencils and pens for drawing. And music! I find that music is definitely calming and helps me forget that I am on a plane.

I also find that I'm more comfortable sitting in first class. I don't know if you want to do that or not, but that's just me. The seats are bigger and there's less people so it doesn't feel as crowded, plus you are the first person on the plane and the first to get off! I know it's a bit costly sometimes, but to me, it is definitely worth it.

I hope that you have fun on your trip!

In a word - Xanax - or some other benzo. You don't necessarily even have to take it ... just having it with you may be enough.

I have anxiety also and I travel internationally. The anxiety on the front end of a trip is always there and I use a benzo when I need it. I don't imagine the anxiety will ever go away completely but it won't kill me either. Once I get home I am always glad I went and had the experience.

Bon Voyage!

Thanks! I was def. planning on music , hadn't thought of the pencil and pen thing though...good idea! As far as first class goes, that's a good idea, and I wish I had thought of it before I purchased the tickets :P

Thank you! I actually have Ativan, except it doesn't work well for me anymore (barely helps at all, actually) I had a Dr. (years ago) that put me on a 3mg a day regiment (I know, totally not the way it was supposed to be used) I was young and I thought it was helping, I got off of it finally, but now it only helps in large doses (2mg or more) and even then, it's barely noticeable. I'm thinking about mixing 1mg of Ativan and throw in an Antihistamine with it (I've already asked my Dr. about it and got the OK to mix them in minimal doses) That has helped me with anxiety in the past, so I'm hoping it'll help me with this.

The last time I was on a plane the cabin depressurized (still not positive about why it happened) it got bumpy and the oxygen masks came down , and we had to wear them. It turned out OK, and shortly after it happened we got the green light to take them off and the flight continued on schedule, but it was an absolutely terrifying moment for me, and ever since I can barely look at a plane without freaking out (and I live right across the street from an Airport!)

I went to Florida from Buffalo on a plane in 1978, told myself i'll never get on another plane-the turbulance was so bad i was scared for my life. I don't know what i would do if i had to take a plane anywhere soon. A class does sound good. Music too!!

Something I read once when I was mentally preparing for flying..go through each step of the flight..leaving home-> checking in at the airport -> boarding -> flight -> arrival.. going through these steps might help you feel more prepared. I hope it helps
I would also take lots of vitamins, fish oil etc etc to keep your body fit.
Music, books, pencil and paper, games, movies etc are also good ways to distract yourself. With me it's not working because once I'm in panic mode it doesn't go away until I can retreat somewhere quiet I hope there is something that helps you get through the flight.

For me, having an aisle seat helps because I feel less trapped (just an illusion but it helps)

First class if you can afford it!!!

It's been a while since I've been on a plane. The thought of taking my kids on one, stresses me to no avail, so we haven't. Do you feel, entertaining your baby will be enough of a distraction from focusing on the anxiety?

I agree with others, just having things to keep yourself occupied/comfort items sounds like a good idea.

I am the opposite of an aisle person, I prefer the window, something about being able to look out of it, soothes me a bit.

I hope all goes well, for you