How do you fly with panic disorder?

This article discusses some strategies for managing panic attacks on a plane, including:
  1. Taking medication for panic attacks.
  2. Using visualization.
  3. Practicing relaxation techniques.
  4. Finding healthy distractions.
  5. Taking classes to combat fear of flying.
  6. Seeking support from other fliers.
  7. Thinking realistically.




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So here's what I've learned over the years and some tips on managing travel anxiety, courtesy of the experts.
  1. Remember why you're doing this. ...
  2. Prep your meds. ...
  3. Take note of what freaks you out. ...
  4. Notice anxious thoughts and let them go. ...
  5. Let the panic attacks do their thing. ...
  6. Ask for support. ...
  7. Travel more often.


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Aerophobia is a fear of flying. It's very common, affecting more than 25 million adults in the U.S. Psychotherapy can usually help people overcome their fear and fly without extreme anxiety or panic attacks.

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These drugs are usually taken shortly before a flight. They include: Anti-anxiety medication, such as diazepam (Valium) or alprazolam (Xanax). Motion sickness medication, such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine).

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What Are the Best—And Safest—Sleeping Pills for Flights?
  • Ambien. Ambien—the most powerful option on this list and the only one that requires a prescription—works as a sedative-hypnotic medication that slows your brain activity to make you feel very sleepy. ...
  • Tylenol PM. ...
  • Melatonin.


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Most people with pre-existing medical or psychiatric conditions are able to fly on a commercial aircraft without difficulty. 'Fear of flying' courses run by the major airlines may be helpful for some.

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1) Diazepam is a sedative, which means it makes you sleepy and more relaxed.

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While Xanax may be useful for flying on an airplane, it will not help you with your anxiety. It may help in the moment but you will not tackle your fear of flying if you are asleep the whole flight. If you ran out of your medication or left it at home, the anxiety will still exist if you go on an airplane again.

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