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Remedies for the Fear of Flying

While many fears and phobias seem trite to those who boldly push the limits of their lifestyle, most people agree that aviophobia, commonly known as the fear of flying, is one phobia that is relatively well-founded. Flying is a very recent endeavor for humans, and having a little anxiety about strapping yourself to rocket jets or propellers is very commonplace. Still, the anxiety and stress that comes from this phobia can be treated, and successfully treating aviophobia can greatly enrich your life. Think of all the places you'd like to see, people you'd like to visit and foreign cultures you'd like to experience. If you're serious about treating your fear, you'll be overjoyed at the new-found freedom awaiting you.

  1. Relaxation Techniques

    • Depending on just how much you're physically and mentally affected by your fear of flying, basic breathing and relaxation techniques may work wonders to settle you and calm your nerves. Breathing deeply, stretching and relaxing your muscles while listening to calming music are sometimes enough to overcome moderate anxiety.

    Natural Remedies

    • A number of aviophobia-related products use natural herbs and homeopathic ingredients to calm worried nerves and relax you. While taking any supplements without consulting a doctor isn't recommended, some people swear by the effects of these products.

    Drug Therapy

    • Those suffering from serious anxiety may actually need to have those symptoms treated. A number of antianxiety medications can be prescribed, treating those who are simply tense as well as those completely paralyzed by their fears. This is not a great way to go about actually curing your fear, but if you absolutely need to fly, this may be the only option you have.

    Professional Help

    • Some research indicates that the fear of flying is actually a combination of several phobias -- like the fear of falling and claustrophobia -- and may be best treated by a clinical psychologist. Even if you have to overcome each fear one at a time, you'll at least begin to get a grasp on rationalizing a fear that before seemed so irrational.

    Talk to the Airlines

    • Some airlines offer classes and other programs focused on overcoming the fear of flying. For those who suffer from a more pragmatic fear, these classes offer statistics, aircraft tours and handbooks to help convince you of the safety and regularity of air traffic.

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