Do I Have Travel Anxiety?

Do you experience a rapid heart rate, chest pain, or difficulty breathing when you travel or think about traveling?

Do you experience restlessness and agitation when you travel or think about traveling?

Do you experience trouble sleeping or insomnia when you travel or think about traveling?

Do you experience nausea or diarrhea when you travel or think about traveling?

Do you experience decreased concentration or trouble focusing when you travel or think about traveling?

Based on your answers, it’s unlikely that you have travel anxiety. Travel anxiety occurs when someone experiences a fear of visiting a new, unfamiliar place and the stress of travel plans. This condition can become serious for some people, stopping them from going on a holiday or enjoying any aspect of traveling. In your case, you have no reasons to be concerned. Traveling is something beautiful and you love every aspect of it!

While it is unlikely that you have travel anxiety, you are displaying some signs related to it. If the symptoms are negatively affecting your life, you may need to talk with your doctor. There are some things you can do by yourself to help you cope. For example, it may be important to identify your triggers; psychotherapy can help you to work through these triggers before traveling. Plan for certain scenarios (e.g, what if you get sick or lost during your trip?). Make sure to bring plenty of distractions, like your favorite books to read and practice relaxation. It may also be helpful to travel with friends.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have travel anxiety. It may be of high importance to seek medical support. Anxiety becomes a serious issue when it negatively affects your quality of life. You may find yourself unable to enjoy or even participate traveling. Through therapy, medication, or a combination of the two you can learn to get rid of your travel anxiety. Mindful preparation before a trip can help reduce your negative emotions about traveling. During the trip you can practice mindfulness, distract yourself with for example a book or a video game, or take medication.