Dear Life Section,
Since it is currently summer, I am traveling quite often, but all of the travel is starting to catch up with me. I am starting to become more and more stressed and anxious because of it. How do I cope with travel anxiety?
Sincerely,
Tired Student
Dear Tired Student,
Traveling can be the absolute worst. It can be hectic, expensive, tiring and sometimes not even worth it. Whether you are traveling for work, luxury, family or friends, there are plenty of ways to deal with the stress and anxiety that lingers behind it.
One of the main things to start with could be trying to find the root of your anxiety.
For example, if your travel involves flying or planes, consider questioning if the anxiety is based on some sort of fear of flying. Finding the source of the anxiety you feel can make a tremendous difference. Once you find the root of the anxiety, you can find the right and appropriate ways to tackle it.
If the root of your anxiety is flying, it would be beneficial to find ways to cope with that fear. Educating yourself on how planes work or even planning to anticipate your anxiety are all ways to dial down the stress you may fear.
Another way to cope with travel anxiety can also be to prepare accordingly. Travel can entail so much packing, moving, driving, flying and more. Preparing for all of these can lessen the anxiety behind each one.
For example, if you are stressed about the length of a flight or drive, prepare what you can do throughout that time you are in the plane or car. Downloading podcasts, reading a book, watching some movies or even classic road games like Slug Bug can be great time passers.
The final thing to think about doing to cope with this anxiety is to talk it out.
For example, if you are stressed about plane turbulence, tell someone around you. If telling someone around you is not possible, writing about your stress or simply acknowledging it yourself can relieve the anxiety behind it.
Much like dealing with any other form of anxiety, talking it out can make a world of difference. Holding your thoughts in and keeping them to yourself makes you deal with it alone rather than using some sort of outlet.
So, we wish you the best of luck with all of your travels this summer. Remember, you are not alone.
Sincerely,
The Life Section
