So..I'm sorta scared of flying, help? (Read first please)?

Question

Ok, so..I'm fine for landing and when you're airborne, but take-off, right when you first start climbing scares me to death! I'm always afraid that the plane's engines will like stop and we'll fall. I'm fine when we stop climbing and after we've evened out. I actually enjoy flying after that happens. I'm 14, and I've been flying around the world with my family since I was 1. In 2 weeks I'll be going on my first transatlantic trip by myself, usually when my parents are with me I feel a little better, but since I'll be all by myself, I know I'm going to worry. Are there any helpful tips you can give me? Thanks in advance(:

Answer 1

If normally your parents calm you down a bit, you might want to talk with someone sitting next to you. Just try to make some conversation so that you forget about your fears for a second.

For some more information about fear of flying, and for some good ideas to entertain yourself when you're alone on a plane, please see the link below. I think keeping yourself busy will be a great way to reduce your fear, since you will be distracted from the whole takeoff thing.

Other than that, I can of course tell you not to be scared. A plane has multiple engines, and they won't just all shut down just like that. Flying a plane is safer than driving a car, are you afraid when you're in a car?

Hope this helps, have a nice flight!

EDIT: I wouldn't take sedatives, since this will in no way help you conquer your fears. If you're flying a lot, face your fears and you'll be fine in the future. Medicines are almost never the answer against fears.

Answer 2

I have to fly trans-Atlantic 6-8 times a year and really don't like to fly. Only thing that has helped me so far is NyQuil night time cold medicine. I will tend to sleep thru most of the flight and if taken about 10-15 minutes before boarding there is enough time to get into your system before take off. I don't recommend large doses of course but a couple of swallows will at least take the edge off.

Answer 3

I know how you feel. I just made a short flight, but it was my first flying without my fiance.  Do some deep breathing excersizes, it tends to calm your nerves and relaxes you. If your anxiety is really bad considering the length of the trip, then ask your parents to talk to your physician and ask about a mild sedative for your trip.  Good luck and have fun.