topic Going overseas for the first time but alone in Anxiety

Going overseas for the first time but alone

aimemari — Sun, 12 Jan 2025 07:14:04 GMT

This is a huge thing for me, as someone who has always been so enclosed, introverted and dependent on others and I'm 21. I made the decision to travel to the USA to meet my boyfriend and I have to go alone. I leave in 7 days and I am just dreading it because I'm afraid of crowds and also the ear pressure in planes. I bought those pressure regulator earbuds meant for flights so I am hoping it'll work but I am scared of navigating the Los Angeles airport on my own. This is going to be like exposure therapy for me as I will have to hop out of my comfort zone to ask for help from anyone around me but it's super anxiety inducing as it is... What are some tips you'd recommend for my first time flying alone?

Re: Going overseas for the first time but alone

Croix — Sun, 12 Jan 2025 12:02:14 GMT

Dear Aimemari~

Welcome to the forum, I think you are a very brave person to undertake this adventure alone. Even for people who do not have an anxiety condition it can be a pretty taxing expereince. I'm sure later on you will look back with pride at whay you have accomplished.

Within Australia there is the Hidden Disability Sunflower system (lanyard available for free at participating airports like Sydney and Melbourne, no need to send away). No medical certificate required. I use one and it attracts airport/airline staff who help me tohugh security and to the right gate.

It's not quite as good on returns as border security can be less understanding.

Within Los Angeles Airport this lanyard is not recognized often however they do offer assistance. You can contact them here to find out what they can do. A bit of an unknown quantity, I've not tried them . Again no medical certificate required.

Obviously it would be better if you were met, have you asked your boyfriend about this?

Boiled lollies ot suck as the plane descends seem to do the trick equalizing pressure, well they do at least for me.

Bon voyage

Croix

Re: Going overseas for the first time but alone

aimemari — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 07:18:07 GMT

Thanks for your response Croix, I will try to take your advice and recommendations 😁