Overcoming Fear of Flying

Fear of flying is an anxiety disorder. Almost half of the people who fly experience an anxiety on the plane. Fear comes from psychological issues derived from current events such as plane failures, terrorist acts, and human errors.  Even though statistics show that flying is still the safest choice of transportation, many people are frightened on the plane. 

Here are some tips to overcome fear of flying:

• Books and music. The best way to overcome fear of flying is to forget that you are on the plane. Literature and music can take you away from the plane to some imaginary place. Music naturally relaxes a person so that the anxiety decreases. Just make sure you make the right choice of music. Books such as romance novels and mystery detectives can help a person to focus on the story instead of the flight.   
• Educate yourself. Fear of flying usually comes from lack of education about planes and their safety features. Knowing what to do in case of emergencies can help people to be in control. Every plane has a brochure that explains emergency actions and safety features. By studying this material, you can reduce fear of flying. Also knowing the statistics of the air accidents in comparison to other kinds of transportation can make you feel safer.    
• Find roots of your fear. Sometimes fear of flying can be traced to childhood or adulthood emotional trauma. Talking to a physiatrist can help reduce or even eliminate fear of flying. When a person knows the reason why he/she has this fear, this disorder becomes less relevant and important.   
• Medication. There are many drugs that can help reducing an anxiety of flying. Some of this medication has to be prescribed by your doctor.