Summer means fun, freedom, and in many cases travel. For many people, though, travel is not simply about adventure or enlightenment, but anxiety as well. If travel anxiety is keeping you from fully enjoying your summer vacation, you are not alone. Luckily, there are many things you can do to combat your anxiety symptoms and make the most of your time in the sun.
What Exactly is Travel Anxiety?
The thought of travel can produce anxiety for the same reason that it is often so exciting: the element of the unknown. Travel often involves immersing yourself in a new culture and a whole new set of customs. At the least, it separates you from the stability of your daily life. While this makes traveling an often-rewarding experience, it can trigger a number of anxiety symptoms as well.
Although travel anxiety is not an official clinically recognized condition, its effects are quite real. Here are a few of the most anxiety symptoms associated with traveling:
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- Difficulty sleeping
- Trouble focusing
- Agitation or restlessness
- Nausea or stomach troubles
- Difficulty breathing
- Panic attacks
- Rapid heart Rate
How to Manage Travel Anxiety
Many people who suffer travel anxiety simply choose not to travel. If you can learn to manage your anxiety, though, you can begin travelling again—and even enjoying it.
Here are a few tips for controlling anxiety symptoms during your summer vacation:
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- Identify your Stressors. Figure out what specifically induces anxiety when it comes to travel. Is it making preparations? Maybe it’s flying? Or, could it be navigating local customs? Once you know what your specific stressors are it makes it much easier to manage them.
- Learn Relaxation Techniques. Practicing meditating or mindful breathing can be a great way to restore equilibrium to your system. If you encounter one of your stressors, you can take a step back and practice these techniques. Rather than panic, you will be able to take charge of your fears.
- Plan for All Eventualities. One of the major anxiety triggers when it comes to travel is fear of the unknown. You are out of your element and you don’t know what might happen. Preparing for such situations as losing your passport or getting lost in a foreign city can help you feel more in control.
- Speak with a Professional. Many more people suffer from travel anxiety than you may think. Because of this, many psychiatrists and other mental health professionals are trained to help people who suffer from this condition. Speaking with one of these professionals can help you talk through and manage your anxiety. In addition, a psychiatrist might prescribe a medication that could help assuage your anxiety while you are traveling.
Contact Bluewater Psychiatry
If your anxiety is threatening to ruin your summer vacation, help is available. At Bluewater Psychiatry, we have many years of experience helping our clients manage anxiety of all kinds. Fill out the form below and begin taking charge of yourself and your life.