How do I deal with a fear of flying?

It's estimated that around 25% of people have some level of fear of flying. While it's a common phobia, it can be a frustrating and distressing one, especially if it's preventing you from traveling or causing you a great deal of anxiety. Fortunately, there are several strategies and techniques that can help you overcome your fear of flying and make air travel a more enjoyable experience.

One effective way to deal with a fear of flying is to learn about how planes work and understand that flying is a safe mode of transportation. You can take courses, read books, or talk to pilots to increase your knowledge and feel more in control. Another approach is to use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation to calm your mind and body during the flight.

Therapy is also a helpful option for those with a severe fear of flying. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that teaches you to recognize and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that fuel your anxiety. Exposure therapy, another type of therapy, involves gradually exposing yourself to the fear in a controlled environment until you become desensitized to it.

In addition to these strategies, there are also several practical tips that can make flying less stressful. For example, arrive at the airport early to avoid rushing, choose a seat that makes you feel comfortable, bring a distraction like a book or music, and inform the flight crew about your fear.