[LearningMe01]

So I posted about going on a plane (and being terrified of it) a little while back. I thought it was a phobia of flying, but thanks to therapy and a little soul searching; I've come to a conclusion. I don't think it's flying , or the plane itself I'm afraid of, I think I'm afraid I'm going to have a panic attack on the plane. Actually, I'm convinced I'm going to have a panic attack on the plane. It has something to do with being "trapped" in the air, and not having anyone familiar around to help ease my anxiety (I'm flying alone with my 11 month old)

I used to go on planes ALL the time (I've probably flown the better part of 40 or 50 times in my life) and up until I had one bad experience (which then triggered a panic attack) I was fine with it. Since then, I've avoided flying like the plague.
I spoke to my T about it last week, and she suggested doing some exposure therapy on myself...go online and watch videos of airplanes taking off, landing, and videos that people have taped out the window. I did that, and it really didn't bother me. But the thought of actually being on the plane, with no where to run to (or no one) scares the living crap out of me. To the point where I feel sick to my stomach and I DO NOT want to get on that plane. Problem is, the flight is the day after tomorrow, and I have someone counting on me to get on that plane so they can see my Son and I.

I know often times panic attacks can be caused by the fear of having a panic attack. Kinda like a self fulfilling prophecy. If I have myself convinced I'm going to have a panic attack, it's probably going to happen. Thing is, I don't know how to stop doing this, or stop worrying about it. The ticket is paid for, and I can NOT cancel the flight.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to relax myself, or stop "talking myself into a panic attack."?

[gayleggg]

Call you doctor and see if you can get some antianxiety medication for the trip. That's what I have to do to get on a plane.
gayle

[LearningMe01]

Originally Posted by gayleggg

Call you doctor and see if you can get some antianxiety medication for the trip. That's what I have to do to get on a plane.
gayle

Thanks gayleggg,

I actually have a prescription for Ativan and also Vistaril. Neither of them work for me anymore. I had a Dr. who put me on a 3mg day regiment of Ativan (stupid, I know) and ever since I've weaned off it (when I got pregnant) no anxiety medication (including the ativan) works for me anymore, even at their highest doses.

[LearningMe01]

Originally Posted by gayleggg

Call you doctor and see if you can get some antianxiety medication for the trip. That's what I have to do to get on a plane.
gayle

Also, I'm glad you signed your name "Gayle" lol I was reading your screen name as "gay leg" and I couldn't figure out what it meant

[gayleggg]

Sorry to hear that. I would take something to keep my mind focused off of the plane. a book, puzzle book, crochet, knit; anything that might take your mind off what you are in. Wishing you well.
Gayle

[winter4me]

Have you tried a non-benzo, like clonidine?
Distraction sounds like a good idea.

[LearningMe01]

Originally Posted by winter4me

Have you tried a non-benzo, like clonidine?
Distraction sounds like a good idea.

Hmmm, clonidine? I've never heard of that actually. I have vistaril which is a non-benzo...it's actually just a really strong antihistamine, which really doesn't do much either. I think my body had just become immune to anything that will help me calm down...sucks!

[healingme4me]

Does your doctor have any other meds, that he/she can prescribe, knowing that the other meds you have been on, have lost their efficacy with you?

Originally Posted by LearningMe01

Thanks gayleggg,

I actually have a prescription for Ativan and also Vistaril. Neither of them work for me anymore. I had a Dr. who put me on a 3mg day regiment of Ativan (stupid, I know) and ever since I've weaned off it (when I got pregnant) no anxiety medication (including the ativan) works for me anymore, even at their highest doses.

[winter4me]

Clonidine is a med for blood pressure but it is also used for acute anxiety (like stage fright).