Traveling with Anxiety
Traveling somewhere can be stressful. You have to pack for the journey, prepare for unexpected bumps along the way, and leave your comfort zone. Even if you’re excited about the idea of traveling, it can easily make you anxious.
Anxiety is often fueled by thoughts of the unknown. For some people, “the unknown” is one of the most thrilling parts of travel. For others, it can make taking a trip feel like something scary and overwhelming.
Thankfully, there are things you can do to manage the anxiety you might feel about traveling. Let’s cover a few tips you can use on your next trip so you can enjoy the journey and the destination without letting fear take control.
Be Mindful
Because anxiety tends to get worse when you think about the “what ifs” that often come with traveling, choose to stay in the present. Mindfulness is more than just a buzzword nowadays. It’s an effective practice that can combat anxiety and stress and make you appreciate what you’re doing more.
Mindfulness simply allows you to stay focused on the present. Close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths. What do you hear, smell, and feel? Mindfulness brings you back to where you are at that very moment. Your anxious thoughts might still try to creep in, but you can let them pass on by.
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead can give you a sense of control when you’re traveling. Things happen, and you’re likely not going to be able to prepare for every little incident. But when you feel more prepared, you’re less likely to let anxiety take over.
If it helps you to make an itinerary, overpack, or plan for “emergencies,” go ahead and do it! Planning your journey will give you back some of the power, and you might even find that you’re more willing to let go and have fun.
Travel with People
One of the best things you can do if you’re anxious while traveling is to share your journey with friends or family members. They’re a built-in support system that can help you every step of the way.
Not only will loved ones serve as a distraction from anxiety, but they can also help to calm your nerves and ease your symptoms. Talk to them about how you’re feeling and let them provide reassurance. Sometimes, simply getting your fears out into the open can make a big difference.
Practice Self-Care
Now isn’t the time to give up on the things that reduce stress and make you feel good. Traveling might disrupt your regular routine, but it’s still important to prioritize self-care. That includes getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying physically active. Simple acts of self-care can go a long way in helping to manage anxiety symptoms.
Self-care practices like journaling and meditation are also great ways to fight back against stress and anxious thoughts. You can do them just about anywhere, even when you’re away from home.
Talk to Someone
Whether your anxiety is triggered by traveling or it stems from something else, and travel makes it worse, consider getting to the bottom of it. Anxiety is often a very manageable condition. However, it’s not something you should tackle on your own. Working with a therapist can help you develop strategies that can help you. Therapists at Wellness Matters specialize in dealing with issues of anxiety and self care. Feel free to contact us today to set up an appointment. You can connect with the Wellness Matters Intake Coordinator by texting or calling (218) 616-1276
At Wellness Matters, the intake process is all on-line and can be done in less than fifteen minutes. On-line appointments make it possible to attend appointments from the comfort from your home or office. In-person services may also be available for people living in northern MN.
