Travel anxiety

[WAgirl]

Prior to my PTSD dx I planned a trip with my partner. The trip is a week away now and every day closer I get to leaving I start to get more anxious, I don't want to go. I'm starting to get worried Iwhen it comes down to it I won't be able to get on the plane. I can't sleep at home where I feel relatively safe, I don't know how I'm going to manage in an environment I don't know. Anyone dealt with anything similar, or have some advice?

 

[EveHarrington]

Take many comfort items. A blanket, pillow, stuffie, etc. Its insane how many comfort items I travel with, ALL in my carry on, god forbid my luggage get lost or I end up stranded in an airport.

Oh and don’t forget the TSA friendly stash of comfort food!

 

[Locket8392]

For me, the anxiety is at its peak before the trip. Once I am in the moment, I am usually fine. I have even been on business where my ptsd felt like it was completely gone for the duration of the trip. I almost cancelled an impromptu family spring break trip, and am so glad that I went through with it. Family and activity is healthy. Try to focus on the positives and stay grounded as much as you can.

 

[CrossingMyLine]

I, too, don’t travel well. The lead-up is difficult but manageable with enough tools and anti-anxiety medicines. The trip itself generally goes well. I tend to “crash” when I get back and try to settle back in. I don’t know that it’s ALL PTSD-related, but it’s very off-putting. I usually plan on taking a “vacation from my vacation” when I get home. There have been times when my apprehension was a warning that I would have been better off paying attention to, so make sure you examine your anxiety to confirm/rule-out causes. Take care of yourself and prepare for the worst - but hope for the best!

 

[Rumors]

Yup traveling puts me on high alert. Even if I am only going an hour down the road. It's nuts. I listen to good music, have the right amount of air conditioning on, and make sure if I am flying I have something good to read. Usually if I can get there without much issue then in a day or so I start to settle in. We have a beach house and I struggle even going there. Once I get home though, it can feel like I need a vacation from my vacation. Spend some time exploring something that will be interesting in the area that might make the trip seem exciting. It can help divert anxiety in to a direction of anticipation. Hang in there!!!

 

[WAgirl]

Thanks everyone for the suggestions. I've always liked to travel, but after this popping up...the last 3 months there's not much left I feel comfortable with. I'm going to try and be prepared with stuff you all talked about and try not to melt down.