DO NOT MINIMISE FEARS
Since the two turbulence incidents, aviation experts have maintained that turbulence resulting in serious injuries and deaths are extremely rare.
Meanwhile, according to the latest data from the International Air Transport Association, 2023 ranked among the safest years in aviation. Just one flight resulted in fatalities out of about 37 million flights.
Still, this is not enough for some to regain their confidence in flying.
Therapists like Ms Siti Mariam said that the condition can be overcome. They use various techniques like talking through the fear, and even using art to help clients deal with their phobia.
Ms Siti, principal therapist at Private Space Medical, said that those suffering from aerophobia could experience symptoms even just from hearing conversations about travelling.
“If you do know someone who may have aerophobia, the last thing you want to do is to minimise their fears,” she added.
“I think (it’s) best to just be present – just listen and hear how it is impacting them and how they’re trying to manage and cope.”
Dr Kang suggested relaxation strategies, as well as breathing exercises and distraction techniques.
“But if these fears are a lot more prevalent, and one is experiencing maladaptive thoughts – they buy into the catastrophe, they buy into the overestimation of danger – they’re likely to need more than quick fixes,” she said.
Ms Siti said that professional mental health support could also be of assistance, but she cautioned that social support remains important even with professional help.
“Be understanding and give them space if you’re able to; allow them that space to be able to talk, or even if they do not want to talk, just stay with them,” she added.