Travelling overseas with anxiety

[Michaelhc]

Hey Guys

I am guessing this is a very common thread.. Never the less it is my first time travelling overseas since I started battling feelings of anxiety. I currently suffer from generalised anxiety disorder. I can still remember the day and time of my first panic attack, July 14th at around 1:30pm, 2014. OF all places to be I was in Bali, with my 9 of my best mates. In 5 weeks time I travel to India and Bali for 10 days. My India trip is business related and my Bali trip is more for relaxation. I will be accompanied by a friend whilst travelling. I would love some advise on what to do in the event of a panic attack overseas. I know I am setting myself up for disaster by even mentioning the worst possible outcome. I feel that given my situation though it's important to have safety plans in place. I would probably describe my anxiety as chronic and not debilitating. I feel a trip like this is the perfect opportunity for me to get out of the comfort zone and let go of my worries, even for a few days..

The hard part is actually learning how to let go... I am sure this is the case for so many of you. I do have medication which I will keep handy at all times, however this is only as a last resort. If I had it my way I would throw these meds out the window and never look back..

If any of you have been in similar situations where they have felt tremendously nervous or anxious about going overseas, please any advise would be great. In fact anyone with any positive suggestions i'd love to hear them.

[Chris_B]

Hi Michaelhc, welcome to the forums. This topic does come up from time to time. Have you had a look through some of the threads we have already? The answers you're after may already be here. Below is a list of some threads we have, you can find others byusing the search function:

Anxiety with travelling

Travelling with depression and anxiety

Travelling and anxiety (advice needed)

Need some help with anxiety leading up to a big overseas trip

How could something like a first time overseas trip cause so much anxiety?

[Starwolf]

Hi Michael,

Stepping out of our comfort zone doesn't come easy when suffering anxiety. Doing it in a friend's company is a good idea. You have already had and overcome a panic attack while overseas. You came through it shaken but unscathed. It doesn't mean it will happen again. Most scenarios we invent and scare ourselves with never turn into reality.

Having lived 9 1/2 years in India, I have found it a fascinating place to embrace. Sure, it is like stepping on a different planet but this is what contributes to its attraction. It is intense and captivating, a great opportunity to broaden the personal horizon. And if you find it is not for you, you can always feel reassured by the fact that you are just passing through. Being such a complex environment, I would be extremely surprised if you didn't find some of its aspects thoroughly enjoyable. Besides, overseas travel can be done with a reliable safety net in place. You'll only ever be a flight away from home.

Happy trails to you.