Aerophobia, better known as the fear of flying, affects over 25 million people in the United States alone. It’s exceedingly common and often makes traveling to different states or overseas arduous and intimidating. Fortunately, scientific advances allow therapists to help curb your fear of flying through sophisticated exposure therapy and virtual reality exercises.
If you want to overcome your fear of flight, contact Dr. Quintal and Associates in Lakewood Ranch, FL.
Dr. Quintal and Associates is one of Lakewood Ranch, FL’s premier counseling centers. We specialize in helping residents improve their mental health and conquer their phobias so they can live life to the fullest. If you want to get one step closer to a happier, healthier you, contact Dr. Quintal and Associates for first-class counseling and mental health services in Lakewood Ranch, FL.
Fear of Flying: Causes and Symptoms
Aerophobia is an anxiety disorder that makes people fear what might happen while flying. Although studies show that flying is 29 times safer than traveling in a vehicle, it’s a prevalent phobia that millions of Americans struggle to overcome.
Numerous factors can trigger aerophobia, including but not limited to:
- Claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces)
- Acrophobia (fear of heights)
- Unfamiliar sounds and sensations
- Turbulence
- Social anxiety
- Not having control of the aircraft
- Not trusting the pilot’s skills or abilities
- Fears of terrorism
Although everyone reacts to Aerophobia differently, common symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Paleness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Muscle tension
- Negative thoughts
- Sweating
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Panic attacks
How to Overcome Your Fear of Flying
Modern technology and scientific breakthroughs make overcoming aerophobia easier than ever before. At Dr. Quintal and Associates, we utilize virtual reality and cognitive behavioral therapy to help patients eliminate their fear of flying and improve their overall mental health.
Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy
Virtual reality exposure therapy simulates the flight experience from start to finish. It helps people conquer their fears from the comfort of their therapist’s office. It takes patients through numerous scenarios ranging from boarding to landing and everything in between.
First, we consult you to learn what triggers your fear of flying and other crucial aspects of aerophobia. We then create unique virtual experiences that help you overcome your fears within a few short sessions.
Once we develop the scenarios, we will provide a virtual reality headset for you to wear and guide you through various situations designed for your condition. We simulate flight booking, turbulence, landing, and other significant events to curb your fears and conquer your phobia.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Sometimes cognitive behavioral therapy can eliminate aerophobia without virtual reality simulations. Our professional therapists will help you relinquish your irrational thoughts about flying and give you a more realistic view of the process. We teach you about planes, safety statistics, and more while providing efficient advice to curb anxiety and triggers.
Tips to Curb Your Fear of Flying
Although professional therapy can reduce your fear of flying, it doesn’t always eliminate it entirely. Fortunately, there are a few ways to curb your anxiety when you feel a panic attack approaching. Below are some tips to make flying more manageable.
Deep Breathing and Meditation
Taking deep breaths and meditating before departure can help diminish your fears and make the experience more tolerable. Relaxing your muscles while breathing deeply will soothe your mind and prevent vexing panic attacks.
Positive Thinking
Focusing on tranquil imagery can significantly reduce flight anxiety. Imagining a calm, peaceful place like a beach or mountainside will take your mind off flying and relax you throughout the experience. Although blocking pessimistic thoughts with favorable imagery takes time and dedication, it can significantly improve your fear of flying and give you peace of mind during your flight.
Contact Dr. Quintal and Associates for Professional Therapy and Mental Health Services in Lakewood Ranch, FL
If you want to overcome your fear of flying while improving your overall well-being, contact Dr. Quintal and Associates. We always make you our number one priority and will do everything we can to help you conquer your aerophobia. Nothing is more important to us than your mental health, and we strive to exceed your expectations with our dedication to quality therapy and mental health services.
Whether you want to overcome your fear of flying or need professional marriage counseling, Dr. Quintal and Associates Counseling Center is always here for you.
Don’t let your fear of flying prevent you from living life to its fullest.
Contact Dr. Quintal and Associates at (941) 907-0525 and schedule your appointment today!
