Travelers with anxiety disorders can explore the world with proper preparation, according to mental health experts. The New York Times spoke with specialists who recommend practical approaches for managing panic attacks during trips, from building confidence through local excursions to creating emergency coping kits.

Simon Rego of Montefiore Medical Center suggests treating short practice trips like exposure therapy, analyzing predictions against actual outcomes. Meanwhile, Jenny Matthews from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport emphasizes that anticipatory anxiety serves as a natural warning system, helping travelers prepare rather than avoid journeys altogether.

Experts recommend assembling panic attack kits containing prescribed medications, pain relievers, and distraction tools like sour candy. A 2023 Journal of Clinical Medicine study supports using cold therapy on the neck for rapid symptom relief. Travelers should also seek support from companions or use meditation apps for solo journeys.

The travel industry increasingly recognizes mental health needs, with some airports offering specialized anxiety workshops. This trend reflects broader workplace and healthcare shifts toward accommodating invisible disabilities, creating opportunities for businesses that adapt services to neurodivergent customers.