Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia
Advertisement

Fear Of Flying Can Be Overcome By Deep Breathing

by Medindia Content Team on March 27, 2006 at 4:58 PM
Fear Of Flying Can Be Overcome By Deep Breathing

People with a mild fear of flying should take a deep breath, immediately exhale forcefully and then hold their breath for six to 10 seconds, just before takeoff.

That is the advice of Professional Association of German Psychiatrists (known by its German initials BVDP), which said the technique relaxes muscles and takes the mind off one's fears.

Advertisement

BVDP chairwoman Christa Roth-Sackenheim advised affected persons to refrain from alcohol and caffeinated drinks like coffee, black tea and cola so as not to heighten the body's state of agitation.

Fear of flying can manifest itself in nervousness, an abnormally fast heartbeat, heavy sweating, anxiety and nausea.

People who repeatedly show these symptoms should seek medical help. "People should admit to themselves that they have a fear of flying, especially business people who have to fly a lot," said Roth-Sackenheim, a psychiatrist and psychotherapist.
Advertisement

She added that fear was a serious symptom of a disorder, not a figment of the imagination that one ought to be ashamed of.

"With the help of education and confrontation therapy, affected persons can break the vicious circle before they try to solve their problems with avoidance behaviour and alcohol," Roth-Sackenheim said.

About one in three airline passengers is believed to fear flying. According to a survey by the German Fear-of-Flying Centre, most sufferers are frequent fliers. Many have experienced a critical situation during flight, others are suddenly gripped by fear of a crash.

--Edited IANS
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Mental Health News

How Stress Induce Emotional Overeating?
Proenkephalin, a chemical molecule present in the brain's hypothalamus, is linked to emotionally driven overeating in response to stress and threats.
From Inflation to Global Affairs- Americans are Stressed on Holidays
Americans experience stress over the holidays, due to inflation, world affairs, rising flu and COVID-19 instances, and previous holiday melt-down.
Japanese Employees: Depressive Symptoms and Work Performance
Evaluating stress levels to improve employee mental health and sleep has shown to be effective in enhancing work performance.
Potential Role of Inflammation in Suicide Risk
Excessive inflammation and the loss of critical brain protection mechanisms have been found as a potential player in suicide risk.
Brain Taurine Levels Linked to Depression
The hippocampal taurine concentration is 20% lower in women affected by depression, stated new research.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
×

Fear Of Flying Can Be Overcome By Deep Breathing Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests