New culture, unfamiliar streets, and meeting and interacting with strangers are a few examples of what a travel or a vacation package brings to the table. To most people, these are the reasons why they enjoy travel and vacations so much. However, to someone with anxiety, the uncertainty involved in travel can quickly turn even the most pleasure-packed trip into a minefield. So how can you make the most of your vacations and excursions when you suffer from bad anxiety? Try out these tips on your next vacation.
1. Learn as Much as You Can about Your Destination
As mentioned, the reason why most people enjoy traveling is due to the uncertainty and adventure associated with the activity. But if you have anxiety, the thought of being in the unfamiliar street and having to talk to a stranger to find your way can bring about a panic attack.
So before you embark on a trip, take time to know your destination. Know how you will get from the airport to your hotel, the best places to eat, and the best modes of transport. Also, find out what currency is mostly used where you’re going. Knowing that you won’t get lost or be forced to talk to strangers while you are in a new city or country will help ease your travel anxiety. Also, take time to learn the safety precautions of being in a new country.
2. Write Important Details Down
As a person with anxiety, you are always worried about what may go wrong. For instance, you may find yourself worrying about losing your phone in a foreign land and being stranded because you had saved your hotel’s address on it. If part of your itinerary includes an excursion, you may worry about being left behind and then being unable to find your way back to the hotel. To ensure you don’t worry about the unknown, write the important details down. For instance, have a small notebook where you write your hotel’s address and the various routes you’ll use on your excursion or flight take-off times.
This way, you’ll know you have back-up in case anything goes wrong, and as such, you won’t have to worry much. Additionally, learn tips to stay healthy because the last thing you want is to get sick while traveling and you have anxiety.
3. Get a Travel Buddy
Having someone to lean on when you are in a new place can make the whole experience more seamless for you. You won’t have to worry about being stranded because you know even if you do, you have someone by your side who’ll help you fix the situation. Also, a travel buddy will notice when you are panicking and get you back on track.
4. Understand Your Body and Create Calming Rituals
The best way to stop a panic or anxiety attack is knowing how your body acts before one. Therefore, take time to learn the signs of your anxiety attack. Also, create calming rituals that you can practice every time you note you are spiraling. Additionally, know when you experience anxiety attacks the most. For instance, if you tend to become anxious in the evening, practice your calming rituals around this time.
The joy of traveling and vacationing in new places is in the mystery that lies ahead. So try out the tips above, join Xpirient and start enjoying what life has to offer today.
