TIPS FOR FIGHTING FEAR

Here are a few tips that have helped me:

Reassure yourself with facts. For instance, I used to be afraid that the plane would simply fall out of the sky. Now I know that it cannot do that. But every so often the fear creeps in, so I carry a small folder filled with flight information. A book like “Things That Go Bump in Flight” by Capt. Robert Welch (Betterways Pub), is useful for this purpose.

If you do panic, remember that you have been frightened before and have always calmed down. Panic attacks cannot harm you, but they are unpleasant. Relax by taking a deep breath through your nose, holding it for a minute, then releasing it through your mouth. Repeat three times if necessary. Let your body go limp; you cannot be tense and anxiety-ridden if your body is relaxed.

Think of all the takeoffs and landings that happen every day at your local airport. Now think of all the airports in your state, the nation, the world. Every day, this fantastic number of safe takeoffs and landings occur. I find, too, that driving to and picking up friends at the airport reinforces the safety of it all . . . and your friends will love you for it.

I always feel better knowing who is flying the plane, so before the flight I ask to meet the cockpit crew. Most pilots are happy to say “Hello,” and perhaps explain what sort to weather to expect en route. (Occasionally, the attendants will tell you that it is not possible for a variety of reasons. Accept this gracefully--you don’t want to interfere with preflight duties.)

If you have any questions during a flight, ask the attendant. Recently I asked, with great alarm, about something that looked like smoke filling the cabin. “Condensation,” I was told, “due to the unusual weather conditions today.” I was then able to relax and enjoy the rest of the flight.

Take something familiar to hold onto, to touch. I admit that my daughter’s teddy bear has comforted me on many flights. Reading something humorous can also help. It is impossible to have an anxiety attack if you are laughing.

Finally, remember that flying is safer than any other mode of transport. The odds against a collision are about 1 in 6,600,000. You are much more likely to win the lottery.

For further information, contact: Fear of Flying Clinic, 1777 Borel Place, Suite 300, San Mateo, Calif. 94402, phone (415) 341-1595.