Travel anxiety can make going anywhere, even for vacation, feel like a disaster waiting to happen. Learn about how the right mindset and gear can prevent panic and increase the chances of having a great time.
Having to deal with new people, places, and situations can put you constantly on edge. Different spaces or obligations can make you feel trapped.
All of the comforts, routines, and people you rely on to manage anxiety and function may not be available.
You may have limited or no access to sources of reassurance. Depending on where you’re going or how you travel, your on-line access and ability to charge devices may be limited.
When you have travel anxiety, leaving your safe space is like jumping off a cliff and hoping it works out.
In addition, you may feel pressure to “have fun” or “just relax.” If you’re anxious, it can feel like you’re doing something wrong. The people you’re traveling with may get mad at you for “ruining” their trip.
If you combine these factors, an “easy” trip can quickly become a nightmare.
However, there are steps you can take to prepare yourself ahead of time.
Like an athlete, you need to get your head in the game and pack the right gear.
When athletes travel to a competition, most of what they pack is meant to help increase their performance and comfort.
What does that mean for the rest of us?
If you’re going to the beach, you bring a towel and sunscreen, not a snow parka. We prepare for maximum ease and comfort given where we’re going.
If you have travel anxiety, what and how you pack can make the difference between comfort and a panic attack.
There are three key areas you need to focus on to manage your travel anxiety:
Below is a list of items that will help you meet these goals. I’ve also included an explanation for how each item can help you manage anxiety.
When you struggle with anxiety, traveling anywhere is tough. You’re very brave for traveling despite your anxiety. Remind yourself of that.
The best strategy for managing anxiety while traveling is to shift your mindset and have the best gear possible to ensure your comfort and success.
This is my challenge for you:
This is the exact strategy pro athletes use to win championships.
There’s got to be something to it.
Please contact us to set up an appointment.
We can help give you information, a map for next steps, and hope that you can have the life you want.
Wishing you the best,
Dr. Levy
Director
Dr. Ronit Levy is a clinical psychologist and director of Bucks County Anxiety Center in Newtown, PA. She specializes in treating teens and adults struggling with anxiety due to Anxiety Disorders, OCD, chronic illness, and life events. Dr. Levy trains and supervises other therapists and presents on mental health in the community.
About Us
The therapists who practice at Bucks County Anxiety Center work with teens (ages 14 and up) and adults struggling with anxiety and OCD.
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