How not to feel overwhelmed from check-in to baggage claim

With their roaring crowds of people, loudspeaker announcements of final boarding to faraway destinations and the thrill of air travel, airports can be an exciting place. However, there are many who deal with a condition called “airport anxiety,” for whom the entire journey from check-in to boarding can be filled with panic.

Not to be confused with the fear of flying – although the two can go hand in hand – airport anxiety is a specific feeling that arises from having to adhere to strict schedules and deadlines, remembering and keeping various documents safe , watching for children and family members, and dealing with crowded spaces, especially during peak travel hours.

“Airport anxiety is more common than you’d think,” says Dr Ruhil Badiani, family physician, Cornerstone Clinic.

“They are busy, crowded mini-cities with lots of people rushing around determined to get somewhere. For people with a fear of flying, there may be pre-boarding anxiety.

She adds: “For people with social anxiety, a history of trauma, those who are neurodivergent and especially for people with sensory processing problems, seeing a lot of people, feeling a lot of stimulation, hearing a lot of noise and experiencing vibrations. lights and alone too many bodies in motion can be overwhelming. If you’re traveling with small children, the anxiety can be even worse.â€

‘Life at the airport’ in front of everyday life

With so many different flights, nationalities, destinations and travelers feeling the effects of different time zones, the airport can seem like a world closed in on itself.

“Life at the airport feels different from daily routines because of one’s unaccustomedness to the environment,” says Dr Salman Kareem, psychiatry specialist, Aster Clinic, Discovery Gardens. “Normal living or workplace environments allow greater personal control over one’s activity and schedule. But at airports there are strict airline schedules and procedural requirements, leaving no room for timing adjustments. Plus, the airport is a place where we have to follow the rules according to their requirements.â€

He adds: “Although not recognized as a distinct clinical diagnosis, airport anxiety can be considered a specific manifestation of generalized anxiety, travel phobia or claustrophobia.”

Seeing fellow travelers and those in transit eating dinner at 7 am or breakfast at 10 pm, sleeping in the middle of the morning, and shopping at all hours can also distort a person’s perception of that that is “normal” for them in their current time zone.

“The airport is a transitional space between two destinations and it can feel like it’s neither here nor there,” says Dr Badiani. “This contributes to a sense of detachment from the normal routine of daily life. When you’re at the airport, you’re often more alert and aware of your surroundings because you have to navigate through check-in, security, and boarding. This heightened awareness can make the experience different from the everyday.

“The anticipation of strife, isolation from daily activities, and emotional stress make ‘airport life’ feel very different from normal.”

Stressful area for travelers

A 2019 study on airport anxiety by Priority Pass found that the top five fears people had when traveling were: getting stuck on the way to the airport, losing luggage, missing boarding, losing your passport and delays. Meanwhile, the most stressful area of ​​the airport was the collection of luggage.

“The baggage check process can be stressful, especially with concerns about overweight baggage,” says organizational psychologist Nityashri Bhatt. “Waiting in long lines and hoping to find a good neighbor on a long drive can add to the tension as well. Bright lights, loud noises and frequent notifications can overwhelm the senses.â€

What to do if you feel congested at the airport

Experts say it’s important to seek help when experiencing a full-blown panic attack and advise that sharing your feelings with a travel companion is a proven way to relieve stress, along with breathing exercises and focusing on eating. or drink something.

“A panic attack is a brief and intense episode of anxiety,” says clinical psychologist Dr Jade Sayers. “The good thing is that panic attacks usually only last between five and 20 minutes, so the first thing you need to know is that it will pass. If you start to feel panicked at an airport, the first thing to notice is who is around; are you traveling with someone who can support you during this?â€

If you are traveling alone, seek a quiet space away from crowded areas or approach airport staff who will be able to assist you.

“Our medical facilities and response teams are available 24/7 and our Guest Experience Ambassadors (GXA) are located throughout the airport to guide guests to the nearest medical center or pharmacy,” says Majed Al Joker, chief operating officer of Dubai Airports. . “For guests with hidden disabilities, identified by wearing a sunflower lanyard, our GXAs and frontline staff are trained to assess the situation and provide tailored assistance. This may include escorting them to a quieter area or calling for medical assistance if necessary.â€

Sayers adds: “Focus on your senses: what can you see around you? What can you hear, touch, smell or taste? Move your body, even if it gets stuck in place, imagine a safe place or listen to music or use an affirmation such as ‘this will pass’.

Reduce airport anxiety by planning ahead

The most effective way to reduce stress and anxiety around travel is to be as prepared as possible, experts suggest. Pre-booking airport transport, keeping passports on hand, printed and digital versions of documents, online check-in and getting plenty of toys and snacks to keep the little ones entertained are all easily manageable ways to feel more comfortable. organized before a flight. .

Travelers should also take advantage of any additional services they can book, such as early baggage claim. “During peak travel periods, we advise guests to stay up-to-date with the latest travel regulations for their destination,” says Al Joker.

“Being familiar with airline baggage regulations, improving security by placing metal items in their carry-on luggage, using smart gates for faster passport control and packing necessary travel documents and power banks in their luggage hand can significantly reduce stress.â€

He adds: “For guests with hidden disabilities, we recommend using the online Trip Planner available on our website prior to their trip. This tool helps in planning their travel and understanding the offers available at Dubai airports.â€

Arriving early to reduce anxiety in time and familiarity with the processes is essential. “To reduce airport stress, passengers should allow enough time to get to the airport, plan by understanding visa and boarding processes, pack light if possible, wear comfortable clothes, stay hydrated and practice relaxation techniques all the time,” says Dr Kareem. “Getting adequate sleep beforehand is also crucial.â€

As Dr Sayers says: “We can’t control or know everything, but the point here is to prepare as much as we can.”

Updated: 03 July 2024, 08:37