Some people fear visiting some unfamiliar places. The stress that comes about while composing travel plans may lead to travel anxiety. Although such a condition may lack an official diagnosis, travel anxiety is a serious issue, and it can stop people from enjoying their vacation.
Some common symptoms are associated with travel anxiety. Fortunately, there are tips and treatment options that can help to overcome the travel anxiety.
Symptoms of Anxiety
The anxiety symptoms are usually different for each person. If your anxiety relates to traveling, some of the symptoms you may experience include:
- Diarrhea, or nausea.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Trouble focusing.
- Restlessness.
- Insomnia.
If the symptoms are overwhelming, you may experience a panic attack. During the panic attack, you may experience sweating and a racing heart. Also, you will feel dizzy and disoriented. Some people may feel disconnected from their surroundings or body.
What Causes Travel Anxiety?
Travel anxiety may come about as a result of different experiences. For instance, you may have experienced a significant accident during a vacation. Or perhaps you’re overwhelmed by news coverage of a plane crash.
When you have a panic attack in an unfamiliar region, you may end up experiencing travel anxiety in the future. Some of the more common travel experiences that may trigger this condition include foreign illnesses and turbulent air travel.
Some biological risk factors may also cause anxiety disorders. Fortunately, neuroimaging can help detect some changes that may be present in some parts of the brain if you have an anxiety disorder.
Tips for Managing Travel Anxiety
If travel anxiety is negatively impacting your wellbeing, the following tips to overcome travel anxiety could prove particularly helpful.
Working with a counselor or a therapist can help you overcome travel anxiety. The therapist can recommend different types of medicine, including Xanax. In this case, always ask your doctor how long do the effects of Xanax last for someone your size. That way, you’re aware of the potential risks associated with taking this drug during travel.
Identify What Triggers Your Travel Anxiety
The anxiety triggers usually increase your anxiety symptoms. Some of these triggers may include traveling or boarding a plane. Your anxiety triggers may also be influenced by caffeine, stress, or low blood sugar.
Psychotherapy can also help to treat anxiety. Such treatment options can help to identify the triggers and also work through everything before you travel.
The most practical tips for managing stress and travel anxiety include:
- Planning for Different Scenarios
Pre-travel anxiety usually comes about because of the “what if” aspect of anxiety. No one can manage to prepare for each scenario that may take place as they travel. Nonetheless, it is good to plan some of the common scenarios that may occur as you travel. Some of the common issues include:
- Running out of money- always contact a close friend. You can also carry your credit card in case of an emergency.
- Getting lost- make sure you have a map and a phone with you at all times.
- Make Sure You Have Many Distractions
There are some activities that you may engage in to reduce your anxiety levels. For instance, you may watch a movie or play video games to distract yourself. Some people also find comfort in reading books and solving puzzles.
The distractions come in handy since they will help erase some of the negative thoughts you may be experiencing.
- Practice Relaxation
Make sure you are conversant with different relaxation techniques. You can utilize these relaxation techniques during your trip to reduce anxiety symptoms.