Can meds (or alcohol) help anxious flyers?

[Iberia Airlines]

Some people fly without difficulty. When their plane drops in turbulence, stress hormones are triggered by their brain just as in the brain of a person whose nerves get jangled. The person who flies easily regulates the stress hormones – and the effects of the stress hormones – automatically and unconsciously.

The anxious flier, lacking automatic regulation, tries to regulate intentionally. When stress hormones are released, the person must prove what triggered the hormones is benign. If not benign, he or she must control the threat or escape to safety. Though this form of regulation may work on the ground, there’s no way it can work in the air.

When stress hormones are triggered by the plane’s sounds and movements, how can the passenger be sure these aren't signs of trouble? When unsure on the ground, knowing you are in control or able to escape limits the release of stress hormones. Since neither control nor escape is available in the air, intentional regulation cannot stop the stress hormones that cause fear, panic, claustrophobia, or anxiety.

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