Travelling with mental health issues
From anxiety to adventure, here are some empowering mental health tips to help you fly with confidence
First stop: the airport butterflies
You’ve arrived at Manchester Airport with passport in hand and your bags packed. But although you’re excited about your upcoming adventure, you can’t seem to shake the quiet buzz of nerves. Sound familiar?
Travel can stir up a mix of emotions, but can be especially challenging if you live with anxiety or other mental health issues. Even with the added support that some airlines (like easyJet and TUI) offer nervous passengers, the thought of flying can feel overwhelming.
While travel can be a powerful source of inspiration and joy, we recognise it can also bring uncertainty. But you’re not alone. So, here’s the good news: with a little preparation (and a lot of self-compassion), you can travel in a way that supports your mental well-being.
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The power of preparation
When it comes to mental health and travel, preparation isn’t just about packing your suitcase, it’s an act of self-care. Taking time to plan ahead could help to ease your anxiety and help you feel more grounded at the airport and during your flight.
Here are some smart steps for a calmer mind:
Research your destination: Just knowing what to expect can make a world of difference. Read up on local customs, gather some emergency numbers, and see if any mental health resources are available in your destination.
Write a “travelling letter” with information about your mental health needs, medication, and emergency contacts. This can be helpful if you ever feel overwhelmed during your journey. Check out our security advice for travelling with medication here.
Choose a travel insurance policy that covers mental health support, so you know you're covered, whatever happens.
Explore the Sunflower Lanyard Scheme: while often used to support people with hidden disabilities, this discreet signal can also be helpful if you experience mental health challenges. Staff at many airports, including Manchester, are trained to recognise the lanyard and offer quiet, considerate support.
Creature comforts
Sometimes, it’s the small things that make the biggest difference. Packing a few familiar comforts can create a sense of safety, no matter how far you are from home.
A favourite book or well-worn hoodie
Calming scents like lavender or peppermint
A travel-sized pillow or playlist that soothes you
"I always pack my favourite tea bags and a small photo of my dog, they remind me of home and help me feel anchored, even in a new place." - Anna, a traveller supported by Mind charity.
Creating comfort doesn’t end at packing. Try to stick to your regular routines, especially when it comes to sleep, medication, hydration, and food. If your body feels balanced, your mind is more likely to follow. If you’re travelling long-haul, Apps like Timeshifter, StopJetLag, and Jet Lag Rooster can help manage jet lag by providing personalised schedules and relaxation techniques.
You can also try:
Mindful moments at the gate or during boarding
Unplugging from screens to reduce stimulation
Gentle movement; even a walk around the airport can help reduce anxiety
Choosing nourishing snacks that support your energy (check out our wellness tips for ideas.)
Stay connected
Even when you’re far from home, you’re never far from support. Staying in touch with people you know and trust can help you feel reassured throughout your travels.
Schedule regular check-ins with your friends, family, or therapist
Use voice or video calls when you need to feel more connected
Share your travel plans or location with someone you trust
Embrace the journey
Let’s not forget the magic of travel, as a change of space can be great for your mental well-being. By breaking your journey into small, manageable steps, you can turn even the most overwhelming itinerary into a series of empowering wins.
Research from mental health charities has shown that travel can boost confidence, reduce stress, and increase feelings of connection and gratitude. And personal stories from travellers around the world echo the same message:
Leaving your comfort zone can strengthen self-trust
New cultures and landscapes invite mindfulness
Meeting new people can spark joy and belonging
What to do if you need support
Let’s be clear: it’s okay to ask for help.
Whether it’s from a travel companion, airport staff, local services, or even your country’s consulate, support is always available. Keep these resources handy:
Quiet rooms or multi-faith spaces at airports
Mental health helplines (Mind, Samaritans, CALM)
Embassy or consulate numbers for international support
Airport assistance teams (look out for Sunflower-trained staff)
Let’s open the conversation
Travelling with mental health issues isn’t always easy, but it is possible and often deeply rewarding. Whether you’ve found ways to ease your airport nerves or discovered small comforts that made a big impact, we’d love to hear your story!
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Every journey starts with a single step. Whether you’re travelling for the first time or the hundredth, Manchester Airport is here to support your mental wellbeing, so you can focus on making those all-important memories.
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