Curbing Fear Of Flying

Millions of people had a fear of flying even before the alleged transatlantic terror plot was uncovered by British authorities, and word of it isn't going to make flying any easier for the skittish.

But, as clinical psychologist and Early Show contributor Robin Goodman told co-anchor Rene Syler Friday there are ways to get a handle on the fear.

Goodman said it can manifest itself in everything from the common "white knuckling" to "panic symptoms, where you have a physical reaction like you're really feeling like you're in danger. You have sweaty palms. Your heart starts to race. You're breathing really fast. Also, your mind really takes over. So, you're terrified that something bad will happen. You start to think of the worst-case scenario, and that may lead you to actually avoid situations and really kind of have it control your life."

But, says Goodman, the best defense is a good offense.

Toward that end, Goodman said the first thing you can do to curb the fear is to be prepared.

"Everything from (when you leave) the house," she explained. "Make sure you leave yourself enough time, because that rushing feeling can also make you feel more on edge. That's equated with feeling anxious.

"When you're on the plane, make sure you know where the exit is; all those things that maybe we're not paying attention to. Feeling in control is really what can help you kind of get through maybe a little tough time."

Next up: calm your thoughts.

"I always feel like that's the big one," Goodman says. "Here you are, grappling with your own brain, and your brain is telling you one thing, and you're trying to do something else.

"Really, you can do that very simply by just talking to other people, but also, maybe, praying, some people find comforting. Or also visualize, 'OK, when I get off the plane, I'm going to be hugging my friend or my spouse. When I get there, I'm going to walk on the beach.' Use your mind and imagination to help you and do something positive, rather than focus on the negative.

Another step: calm your body, with "deep breathing. Maybe get up and walk around, if you can, on the plane. Don't use stimulants. Don't start drinking a lot of coffee. It makes you feel on edge. Rest. Eat healthy things, not junk food."

In addition, engage in other activities, Goodman urged, such as talking to someone about neutral, pleasant or calm things -- favorite books or movies, for instance, or your family.

But, when should someone consider the possibility that the stress they're experiencing is extreme?

"When interferes with your life, limits your life, when you can't control it," Goodman responded. "When you're avoiding things."

Goodman pointed out that there are "successful treatments for fears and phobias. There's virtual reality, where you have those helmets where you visualize being in a plane. There are situations and treatment programs where they bring you to airports and on planes, and you're exposed to the situation, and you get better."