Post-stroke Travel

Jennifer
Jenniferon Wednesday, November 27 2024
2 Comments

Before my stroke I went on multiple cruises. This year was my first since my stroke in 2020. I want to broaden my horizons but am terrified of long flights so am only booking close to home cruises. I have three next year, all Australia, New Zealand and  New Guinea but I want to travel further. Alaska, Galapagos, Antarctica and Greece are on my bucket list. Does anyone have any advice on how to get past the fear/anxiety?

2 Responses
StrokeLine avatar
StrokeLine

Hi Jennifer,

 

Thanks for reaching out to the Enableme community for advice on travel. I’m sorry to hear about your stroke, but pleased to hear you are enjoying travelling again, albeit closer to home.

 

It’s also great to hear that you are eager to travel further abroad. The emotional response to fearing another stroke is normal and very common. There are several things we recommend that may assist with this.

 

  • It is essential to know the risk factors that contributed to your stroke (if there were any), so that you can aim to reduce these risks.
  • Be stroke safe and practice stroke prevention. Educate yourself, your family and friends as much as possible about stroke prevention and then practice it.
  • Be aware of the statistics – if you think this will be beneficial to you.
  • Speak to a health professional. Talking about your fears and anxiety can help reduce them and they could also help you develop some strategies to manage these worries.
  • De-catastrophy – a behavioural technique that encourages you to examine if the effects of the worry have been overestimated.
  • Use mindfulness techniques.
  • Be prepared – have a plan in place to help you feel more secure. You may find it very helpful to discuss your concerns with your GP.

 

You can read more information about ‘The Fear Factor’ and these strategies here.

 

If you would like more information and support, please do not hesitate to contact us on StrokeLine 1800 787 653 or email strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au. We are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEST.

 

I wish you all the very best,

Jo (Strokeline)

 

garrylawson avatar
garrylawson

Depends on the fear , fear of having another stroke , very unlikely as you have travelled before , yes travel further if you have travelled before , just the usually script and a letter for your medications , yes some pills are illegal in some countries with out a letter from you doctor , and just enjoy your new found freedom . And don't forget your travel insurance to be safe .

Loading reply form...