On fear of flying

Bill McGee of USA Today recently wrote a very thorough article all about the fear of flying, from what causes it...

...the "fear" of flying may in fact be comprised of separate and distinct fears, including fear of heights, fear of loss of control, fear of losing one's balance, and fear of death itself, in addition to claustrophobia, panic disorders and social phobias. Many travelers suffer from two or more of these conditions at once, so an effective diagnosis is critical.

...to a variety of ways it can be coped with:

Some nervous fliers simply choose to medicate, though counselors say this may not always be effective. For those concerned about side effects, some travelers prefer homeopathic products, which offer a non-addictive alternative to many prescription sedatives and other medications. Homeopathic remedies for fear of flying symptoms are offered through a variety of health stores and online.

Counselors I spoke to question the effectiveness of hypnosis, but those who are receptive to such procedures may find comfort in this option. In-person visitation is the preferred method, but patients who don't have the time and/or money and/or access can purchase a variety of audio tools. Also, synchronized breathing might help some find relief and calm their nerves. Ancient exercises—such as Qi Gong—are proven stress relievers, but may not work for all nervous fliers, particularly once they're airborne. However, under certain conditions such practices could provide a low-cost and natural remedy.

One of the simplest of all solutions may prove effective for some fearful fliers: Listening to soothing music on an iPod or other electronic device can ease the stress and anxiety of flying. In addition, some recordings can be overdubbed with subliminal therapeutic advice.

Of course, psychological counseling is always an option as well.

The piece also links to fear-of-flying clinics and seminars across the country and around the world.