How To Prevent Panic Attacks When Backpacking

Backpacking can be an overwhelming experience setting you outside your comfort zone. Being in unfamiliar surroundings or circumstances, especially when you are travelling in a country that does not speak your language, can be scary. At 2B Happy we want you to have the best time backpacking as you can which is why we’ve come up with these tips for preventing and avoiding panic attacks.

Don’t compare yourself to fellow backpackers

Everyone deals with new and different situations in their own way. Whilst you may feel overwhemed or anxious, someone else may seem perfectly at ease. There is nothing wrong with either state though! How you adapt to things is all part of the learning experience and backpacking will certainly make you grow as a person, being able to take on new challenges with more determination and confidence.

Find a quiet spot to clear your thoughts

Removing yourself from your fellow backpackers or the bustle of the area you are in to find a quiet spot can set you more at ease. Find somewhere that will give you the chance to breathe and just think for a moment. Try to clear your mind of what it is that is worrying you and look out over where you are. Appreciating the country and surroundings you are in, as well as praising yourself for getting there in the first place will remind you of why you are there and what you want to achieve.

Talk through it with someone else

During your travels you are likely to find a companion or someone you feel you can talk to. Sitting in silence and worrying about things to yourself will only increase your levels of panic and anxiety. The first step is talking yourself out of your fears. Once you address your own fears then you can seek help from others. Most people will be able to relate to how you are feeling as nerves arise throughout life.

Throw yourself in at the deep end

Sometimes pushing yourself to the limit right from the start can actually be beneficial. Before you can even let fear get in the way, immerse yourself in the middle of things. After you’ve done it once you will feel able to keep doing so. It will seem much easier to approach new obstacles and challenges as well. You might even surprise yourself! But…

Never do things you are uncomfortable with

It may take you longer to adjust so forcing things could actually have adverse effects. If you know that you are more prone to panic attacks or certain fears, consider these before you travel and try to find a way to counter them. Preparation can really help to ease nerves. From meeting new people or not knowing the language, to being away from home, there will be solutions you can work through no matter what it is that is worrying you.

For example try to stay open minded to other people and prompt light conversation from the start to tackle social situations. You could assemble a few simple words or phrases in the language of the country you are visiting before you go and practice these on your journey. To deal with homesickness, take a photograph or item that reminds you of home so that you can keep this on you to calm yourself when you are feeling low.

South Africa is a country full of vibrant culture and some of the most beautiful animals. Experience the buzz of Johannesburg by booking you stay in one of our backpackers’ lodges at 2B Happy. We want to make your travels memorable, for all the right reasons, so contact us today for more information.