Tackling fear of flying during fear of flying weekend on June 1 and 2

Summer vacation is just around the corner and many people have already booked their airline vacations. Unfortunately, not everyone gets on a plane without worrying. More than 30 percent of Dutch adults suffer to a greater or lesser extent from fear of flying. And that can spoil the vacation fun. That is why Aviodrome, in cooperation with the fear of flying institute Stichting VALK, is holding the National Fear of Flying Weekend on Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2.

Fear of flying is a typical stress complaint, which can arise at a time when a person is not comfortable in their psychological skin. One or more stress factors or anxiety disorders usually underlie it. The most common are: claustrophobia, fear of heights, social anxiety, control anxiety and fear of losing control. "Anxiety reveals itself differently for everyone, but fortunately it is perfectly treatable," explains Dr. Lucas van Gerwen, clinical psychologist, aviator and director of the VALK Foundation.

Free workshops
The National Fear of Flying Weekend on June 1 and 2 will feature free workshops in which participants will learn about the causes of fear of flying, what it does to their bodies and how best to deal with fear and emotion. Relaxation exercises will take place in a parked KLM Boeing 747-300. Afterwards, a KLM pilot explains how an airplane flies, what turbulence is and what requirements air traffic safety must meet.

Speed dating
Before and after the workshops, participants can "speed-date" with former clients in a specially equipped room. "Last year this was in high demand because it brings about so much recognition among people with fear of flying," Van Gerwen explains. "This mutual recognition and support from peers is a first important step in overcoming fear." There is also the opportunity to speak to therapists, take a fear of flying test and learn about self-help methods.

National Fear of Flying Weekend
The National Fear of Flying Weekend will take place on Saturday June 1 and Sunday June 2 at Aviodrome in Lelystad. Opening hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The free workshops start at 11:30 am and end at 5:00 pm. Registration for the workshops is not necessary. On both days the program is the same.