Are you afraid of flying? Therapists' seven tips to ease flight anxiety

▲There are actually ways to ease flight anxiety (Image/Dazi/Illustration)

By Rita

Everyone knows that flying is a safe mode of travel, but if you have a fear of flying, this statement might not be very comforting. However, there are ways to reduce anxiety about flying. The UK's Daily Mail has compiledseven tipsfrom therapists that travelers might find helpful.

1. Identify the real cause of your fear
Many fears are actually linked to some perceived underlying dangers, and few people examine the trigger point. Ask yourself whether your fear of flying is caused by past events. Identifying the cause is the first step.

2. Challenge the source of your fear
Ask yourself what thoughts make you feel that flying is frightening, and then question whether those thoughts are really true.

3. Create a new response mechanism
Try to create a new association, redirecting past experiences that link to fear toward new positive experiences. Therapists suggest imagining that you feel completely calm and relaxed, as if you are sitting on a beach surrounded by loved ones.

4. Change your mental image of flying
Many people fear the sensation of takeoff, possibly because their minds are stuck on a certain image of flying. That image may cause subconscious fear, and the only way to address it is to change it first.

5. Meridian therapy
Recently, it has become popular to achieve relaxation by pressing certain acupoints. You can do some online research beforehand.

6. Engage both sides of the brain
Try looking straight ahead and slowly moving your eyes from left to right. This can have a soothing effect and prevent your brain from focusing solely on your fear.

7. Manage your emotions
Try to change your mindset and regain control. Don’t let imagination or feelings take over, making you feel scared as soon as you take off. Practice overcoming it.