80 DAYS TO NEW YEARS! (#12)

Time To Go Home

​It’s my last day in New York. My flight to Atlanta leaves early this evening. If not for my claustrophobia, I could probably enjoy my last few hours in New York, but I am already busy worrying about my return flight. Just thinking about it, I’m clenching my teeth and I have butterflies in my stomach. I should probably go ahead and take my pill.
 
I have learned how to manage and live with the symptoms of ​my claustrophobia. I’ve developed tricks and techniques that allow me to halt panic attacks before they get to the stage where I wouldn’t be able to step on the plane…and trust me, this has happened in the past.

So, what do I do?
 
Medication: I use some medication that helps me to avoid panic attacks. The key is the timing—when to take this medication. It makes a huge difference if I take a half-dose before any symptoms arise, which means taking the first dose before I leave for the airport and the second half when I get on the plane. I’ve found that if I split my medication in two, I’m less likely to get a panic attack. Sometimes, especially on longer flights, it’s harder to manage the phobia. During a trip like that, I need to take another half-dose after six hours.

Talk About It: If I happen to be flying by myself, I tell the passengers seated next to me about my claustrophobia and sometimes I let the flight attendant know as well. Although I share with them how serious it is, I try to infuse it with some humor, even a bit of sarcasm. By doing this, I break the ice with these strangers. I also tell them what to expect if and when an attack were to happen.

​Alcohol: Okay, this one I probably should not talk about since it’s not something that is advised. But since we’re getting so close lately, I feel that I can trust my readers. I discovered that if I have one alcoholic beverage, I can totally kill my crazy phobia—plus, I’ll get a nice sleep. And if I’m being that open with you, I can tell you that my favorites are Bloody Marys or white wine. Like I said, it’s not something that I suggest doing; we all know that alcohol is not recommended in conjunction with medication. ​

Smaller Spaces: Smaller spaces than the airplane cabin can be helpful. If I’m feeling cramped, I go to the bathroom and stay there for a while. Then, when I step out, I get a sense of relief. The plane appears large and spacious after that tiny, confined bathroom.
 
Positioning: One thing that gives me immediate relief is to lower my head to my knees and hold it between my hands. 

Wi-Fi: I always purchase the Gogo in-flight service, even for short flights. By having contact with the outside world, I feel less confined—it gives me a greater sense of control. Besides, knowing that I can let someone at home know what’s happening makes me feel safer. Being on social media, texting, and emailing really helps pass the time quickly. 

Now, if I could just make this claustrophobia disappear forever…but I can’t.
 
I hope this helps at least one of you. If you have more tricks on how to manage claustrophobia, please send them my way.
 
Time to take a pill.
 
Michelle