As the weather heats up and we feel the urge to travel, I want to share some tips that have helped me keep my anxiety at bay while away from home. Many mental health illnesses flare up when we are away from home because we are naturally out of our comfort zone. 

The most ironic thing about feeling anything but happy and relaxed on vacation is, feeling like the money spent while on vacation is being wasted the more we focus on things we can’t control. The hope is that these tips will inspire others to create a list that they can use as a reference when traveling that they can best benefit from. Here are some things that have helped me over a span of time. 

Important note: Traveling doesn’t always have to be vacation related. This list can be used when traveling (literally anywhere) outside of the comfort of our homes. 

1. Create a playlist of your favorite songs, the ones that boost your mood, relax you, or make you think of happy memories. This tip is most helpful to distract yourself from unwanted thoughts, or block out others around you who may not understand how to help you in the moment.
2. If you take medication to maintain your symptoms, make a note to pack them. Set reminders so you don’t miss your doses on the go.
3. If you’re traveling with a group of friends or family for fun, or staying at a family member’s home, where you will be around other people, schedule time in advance (or go on an outing) alone. At times we may not realize it but, time to recharge is vital and should be prioritized– even while traveling!
4. Pack snacks/non-perishable foods you will enjoy! Oftentimes, while traveling we eat badly. Not to mention the monetary strain it puts on our wallet. Most importantly, not everyone prioritizes food the same. Our bodies all work differently, and we should honor it. 
5. Headphones. That’s it, that’s the tip. 
6. Create an itinerary if planning ahead is something that helps you. Don’t feel ashamed about it either.
7. Make sure a person you trust knows your whereabouts. If you feel it’s necessary, get a house sitter to avoid worrying about your home while you’re away. 
8. If you’re riding a plane, download your airline’s app for the most accurate updates. This is also helpful for a smoother airport experience. I highly recommend opting for a digital boarding pass.

Pro tip for individuals with chronic illness who also use mobility aids: ALWAYS take advantage of airport assistance/accessibility options. I recognize that those who use wheelchairs may be anxious and afraid of how their wheelchair will be cared for while in transit and in the care of airline staff (rightfully so!). Unfortunately, mistreatment of mobility aids are far too common, and I wish that it wasn’t. We deserve respect, and that includes our belongings. In my experience though, using airport assistance has worked in my favor. In fact, because I use forearm crutches, I am almost always upgraded to a more comfortable seat on the plane if it’s available. I recognize what a privilege it is to be able to say that. 

All in all, we are the drivers of our ship, no matter where we’re located, or where we are headed. Pun absolutely intended. Mental health is health and preparing accordingly is where it’s at. Ten out of ten recommend. What are some tips that help you to keep your mental or chronic illness management when you’re away from home? Tweet us your tips!