Fear of Travelling Alone (Seeking Advice)

[halcyondays_]

Hi all,

About a year ago, I took it upon myself to book a solo trip to Europe which is coming up very, very soon. I've been diagnosed with anxiety not so long ago (at 19 years of age), however after seeking professional help I tend feel a lot better when I'm not having off-days.

With this trip being so close, I can't help but find myself getting really, really anxious. As much as I love talking about it and how exciting it is, and how much it'll help me grow as a person and take my mind of the stresses of university, work and other commitments.I can't help but notice I have so much fear creeping to my mind. It's gotten to the point where I've had a panic attack which included crying and shaking, which I haven't experienced in a while.

I also can't bring myself to think about the positives on this trip. All I can think about is how scary it is, leaving my family and potentially freaking out whilst on the trip...

I don't want this fear to ruin my experience of this trip, would anyone be able to provide any tips or advice for me to help me get through?

[Croix]

Dear Halcyondays~

Welcome, I think you did good by posting here, especially as you are reasonably new to an anxiety diagnosis, and its treatments.

I've had this for quite a long time and I've found it's an illness that needs to be 'managed' to lead a more comfortable life without symptoms going over the top.

Before going any further let me suggest reading The Facts menu above about anxiety, symptoms, treatments and other helpful things.

It would seem at first glance you have two alternatives, firstly to not go -which would be a very great pity, or do go and hope for the best - frightening and probably not that good a move.

The way I'd handle it is to take sensible precautions to ensure if your anxiety does take over you can deal with it, and actually try to stop things from escalating in the first place.

A first port of call would be your doctor to announce your trip and get his/her thoughts. This goes beyond ensuring you can get your meds and treatment overseas but also what preventive measures can be taken (I'll come back to them)

If possible in your trip have contacts you can visit, if there is family so much the better, you can make sure you can be in touch in case things go wrong. Possibly also a recommended doctor if you are going to be predominantly in one place. I realize these might not apply in your case.

There is a lot of productive stuff you can do to reduce the likelihood of anxiety taking over. Dealing with those mot frightening panic attacks involves breathing (4/2/4), moving away from the scene if you can, thinking in other terms and being very aware you have been there and come out unharmed before.

Lead as balanced a lifestyle as you can, with exercise, healthy eating and enough sleep. No harmful quantities of alcohol and most importantly having enjoyment and distraction regularly to reduce life's stresses. Have a look at:-

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums/anxiety/self-help-tips-for-managing-anxiety
and
http://resources.beyondblue.org.au/prism/file?token=BL/0762

Which put things better than I can even if it takes a bit of patience to read it all.

If you would like to talk more that would be great

Croix