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What is aerophobia? -

Aerophobia is an extreme fear someone has associated with flying in an airplane. The specific aspects each person fears may differ. For example, some may worry about the take-off or landing while others fear being trapped inside an airplane.

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Is your fear irrational? -

Your fear might be irrational but that doesn't mean you can reason it away. Statistics show that traveling in the air has some of the lowest death rates when compared to other forms of travel.

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Another name for aerophobia -

Another name for aerophobia is aviophobia.

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Actual fear vs. fear of crashing -

Most individuals with aerophobia aren't really afraid of a plane crash. They are more afraid of the overwhelming anxiety associated with being on the plane or even the anticipation of flying.

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What is a phobia? -

A phobia is an intense worry or panic about certain activities, objects, or situations. It is a type of anxiety disorder.

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Is aerophobia common? -

The fear of flying is quite common and affects approximately 25 million adults in the US.

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Who is at risk? -

Those who are most susceptible to aerophobia include individuals from 17 to 34 years old. This unique time in life has a lot of major milestones including graduation, marriage, or even childbirth. 

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Why might they be afraid? -

People might be worried that by flying, they are jeopardizing their lives during such an important time.

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What causes aerophobia? -

Aerophobia usually isn't caused by something specific.

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Triggers that may contribute to aerophobia -

However, it might be triggered by news stories about crashes, terrorism, or violence on planes. It can also be triggered by take-off and landing, or during turbulence.

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Other phobias that can worsen aerophobia -

Other phobias can make aerophobia even worse. Things like acrophobia, a fear of heights, or anthropophobia (a fear of people) can cause you more anxiety.

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Symptoms of aerophobia -

If you have aerophobia you might avoid flying and will potentially miss opportunities to connect for work and with family. You might insist on other modes of transportation even if it's inconvenient. 

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Behavioral signs of aerophobia -

Depending on the severity of your aerophobia you might either avoid movies and books related to air travel altogether or become obsessed with learning about security measures in airports or on planes.

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Physical symptoms of aerophobia -

If you have aerophobia, you might have a panic attack before or during the flight.

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How is aerophobia diagnosed? -

You might have aerophobia if you develop symptoms at just the thought of a situation or object including airplanes and air travel.

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Diagnosis - If your fear goes on for six months or longer or if you have difficulty functioning at home, work, or in social situations, then you might have aerophobia.

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Mild vs. severe aerophobia -

Aerophobia can range from mild to severe. You may have a more mild case if you'll fly but only if you have to. Whereas, it may be more severe if you've refused to fly for five years or more.

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How is aerophobia managed or treated? -

Many people can actually overcome their fears around flying with the following options.

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Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) -

CBT can help you focus on changing the way you think about flying. It can also encourage techniques to manage certain triggers such as deep breathing and meditation.

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Exposure therapy for aerophobia -

This type of therapy will gradually expose you to thoughts, places, or situations related to traveling in the air. One example might be visiting an airport and watching as planes take off and land safely.

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Psychotherapy -

Psychotherapy could be a one-on-one session with a therapist or possibly in a group setting.

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Can medication help? -

Medication isn't considered effective for managing aerophobia in the long run. However, it might help with more immediate problems such as an anxiety attack.

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Is there a way to prevent aerophobia? -

Sharing your anxieties and fears with a support system of friends and/or family can potentially help reduce the impact.

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How to reduce the impact of aerophobia -

Avoid things that often make anxiety worse like caffeine or alcohol. Additionally, be sure to share your fears and anxieties with a medical provider.

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Outlook for people with aerophobia -

Most people with aerophobia respond positively to psychotherapy or CBT. It is possible for aerophobia to return, so ongoing therapy might be needed.

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When should you call a doctor? -

If you experience difficulty functioning in your daily life because of your fear of flying or if you experience panic attack symptoms, you should contact a doctor.

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Questions to ask your doctor -

If you seek out medical attention for your aerophobia you can ask questions such as, "Can medication get me through a flight without panicking" or "Do I need psychotherapy?"

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Will I ever get over my fear of flying? -

This is a question you can discuss with your doctor and hopefully find a solution to. They will be able to assess your medical history and potential options in order to help you.

Sources: (CNN Travel) (Cleveland Clinic)

See also: Why is flying becoming more dangerous?

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