How to Go on a Cruise with Panic Attacks

A panic attack is a sudden onset of fear or dread that seems to come out of nowhere. It can trigger a host of physical symptoms such as dizziness, heart palpitations and shortness of breath. In the midst of a panic attack you may feel as if you are dying and the physical symptoms can reinforce that fear. If you suffer from these attacks you may feel that a vacation cruise is out of the question, but there are steps you can take to keep panic attacks from ruining your vacation.

Instructions

Before You Begin Your Cruise

• 1

  Schedule a thorough physical exam. Because panic attacks can mimic the symptoms of serious physical ailments such as heart attacks, it is important to share your symptoms with your physician. A thorough physical exam can rule out any underlying physical causes.

• 2

  Seek mental health counseling. Through cognitive behavioral therapy and other techniques, a mental health counselor can help you learn what triggers your panic attacks and provide techniques for avoiding attacks and coping with them when they occur. Start this therapy well in advance of your trip so that you have plenty of time to practice these techniques.

• 3

  Consider medication. A variety of antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are available. Your physician or a psychiatrist can help you decide whether you need medication and which medicine is right for you.

During Your Cruise

• 4

  Talk to the ship's doctor. Locate the ship's doctor at the beginning of your cruise and explain that you suffer from panic attacks. Set up a plan with the doctor to follow in the event of an attack. Carry a ship's map with you at all times in case you need to get to the medical center quickly.

• 5

  Tell those you are traveling with. Explain panic attacks to your friends or family members and give them instructions as to what to do to assist you should such an attack occur. If you have been prescribed medications for use during a panic attack, make sure they know where you are keeping them and the proper dosage to offer you.

• 6

  Care for your physical health. Stress and fatigue may make you more susceptible to panic attacks. Be sure to get plenty of sleep and use alcohol in moderation (or not at all, if it is contraindicated by your medication.) Get some physical exercise too. Most cruise ships have a workout facility and you can always take a brisk stroll on the deck.

• 7

  Relax! That is what the cruise is for, after all. Pamper yourself with a massage or sauna session or just enjoy the wonderful views and breathe in the sea air. If you have worked on deep breathing exercises with your therapist, put them to use as well.