Terrified of Travelling

[Brooklyn707]

So I've never been overseas before but have really really wanted to. At my uni there was an info session last week about a volunteer program for going overseas for two weeks during the summer (in December), you volunteer for one week, going adventuring for the second, I knew I wanted to do this so I signed up. For the first few days afterwards I was so incredibly excited, but now I'm absolutely freaking out. I'm annoyed at myself that I made the decision to go so fast, and I'm wondering if I did actually make the right one. I'm so scared and freaked out inside. Last night I felt like throwing up, my legs felt weak and I was hyperventilating, my mind was racing and my heart was pounding so fast. I'm having trouble concentrating on my uni work and can't think clearly. I'm only 19 and last night I had to go sit next to my mum while she was watching some TV to try to feel better. I'm so scared and part of me just wants to cancel it all and forget about it. But I do want to go and don't want to chicken out. While I was excited I told a number of people too and I don't want to chicken out. But I'm so scared. Even when I'm relatively calm I just have this deep ache in my chest.

 I want to do this but now all of a sudden I just want to forget all about it. I'm wondering if I should see a doctor. But it's still 9 months away so I don't know why I'm freaking out. 

Help me please!

[Zeal]

Hi Brooklyn707,

I can relate to how you feel. When I was about 16, my Dad and I signed up for an exciting trip to Nepal. It involved high-altitude hiking, but we weren’t going on the most difficult route. I’ve had OCD since I was 13, so I knew being in a third world country would be challenging for me. I became really anxious about going, and couldn’t get my head around it, so my Mum eventually cancelled the trip. We got our money back, as my GP wrote a letter explaining my situation. I don’t know whether that was the right decision, but I’m okay with that. I’m 22 now, and my family and I have travelled a fair bit since then.

If you don’t mind me asking: have you been diagnosed with anxiety, or another condition? Also, where are you going for this two week trip? I’ve seen flyers for two week volunteering trips at my university. Third world nations can be confronting to visit, especially for those who have an anxiety condition. However, these experiences can also build personal resilience. As you would be going with other students, you’ll be able to help each other on the trip. Also, your university wouldn’t endorse a trip which isn’t well-planned and safe.

Talk to your parents about your concerns regarding this volunteer trip. They might even be able to help you make a decision.  People shouldn’t judge you for not going, especially if you are honest about it. As long as you formally withdraw by contacting the organisers, it should be fine. This volunteer experience sounds like it was your idea; you have the right to do what is best for you. You could make an appointment with the university counsellor; they will listen to what you have to say and will offer advice. This service is usually free for students.

If you don’t go on this trip, there will be an opportunity in the future for travel. If you decide to participate in this trip, then prepare well beforehand to minimise anxiety. So, pack more than two to three days before you leave, know a little about where you’re going, and get to know the people you’ll be going with, if possible.

If you haven’t been diagnosed with anxiety and are worried, going to your doctor is a good idea.

I hope you can make a decision that feels right for you.

Best wishes,

SM