The stress of flight crew life can be overwhelming. With extended hours and constant traveling, it no doubt gets tiring. Thankfully, there are ways to relieve stress when the job gets to be too much. 

It is up to you to relax and focus on your self-care. Only then can you continue to enjoy your job by focusing on developing a work-life balance. 

Are you curious about how to destress when the job starts bringing you down? Keep reading for tips on being the best stress-free flight attendant there is! 

Flight Crew Job Stressors 

Before we dive into what you can do to relieve stress, let’s look at a few job stressors. A few aspects of your job that may cause worry are being away from home and getting too much exposure to noise. Plus, there is your busy schedule which often results in fatigue. Also, you may or may not have to deal with an unfavorable working environment. So, it can be challenging to make your health a priority. 

• Being Away From Home

Even if you love your job, being away from home for long periods can cause loneliness. When you are lonely, your body tends to get stressed out, which is not something you want to struggle with long-term. 

• Noise Exposure

The exposure to noise and vibration is both physically and mentally draining. It can affect your concentration and cause you to be overly tired. If you struggle with too much noise exposure, it may be time to take a vacation. Or, invest in some earplugs to protect your ears when you do not have to speak to people. 

• Tight Schedules

Having a tight schedule is another aspect of your job that may make you feel stressed out. You should discuss a solution with your boss if you work too many hours. Finding a solution is vital so your work performance does not suffer. For example, you could suggest having flight crew housing, providing a much-needed break. Hotel Engine discusses the advantages of flight crew housing. 

• Dealing With Difficult Passengers 

Dealing with difficult passengers is never easy; sometimes, it can seem too much to handle. That is why self-care is vital. When it is time to take a break, ensure you leave the stress behind. Finding activities to help you unwind can alleviate any anxiety caused by unruly passengers. 

How To Reduce Stress 

Now that you have a brief overview of what can cause stress, here are some tips on reducing feeling overwhelmed:

• Take Regular Breaks 

You must take breaks, especially if you do long-haul flights. During your break, stretch your legs and practice deep breathing. These two simple techniques can reduce your stress levels. 

• Prioritize Healthy Eating 

Since you help passengers while in the air, you must take care of yourself first. Making yourself a priority means taking care of your body by eating healthy foods. 

Packaging healthy snacks like carrots and nuts is also a good idea. Keep them accessible so you can access them when you start to get hungry. While performing your job, avoid eating sugary snacks and drinks. Otherwise, you will begin to feel more tired and overwhelmed. 

• Do Not Miss Out On Sleep

You may be tempted to finish a book before a long flight but prioritize sleep. Getting enough rest ensures you put your best foot forward during your job. Feeling well-rested also helps you deal with stressors when they arise. 

• Apply Relaxation Techniques 

Applying simple relaxation techniques during your job and when you have time off. You can reduce anxiety by deep breathing, meditation, and visualization. 

• Take Advantage Of Your Downtime 

Flight crew members should also take advantage of the downtime during long-haul flights. This can be an excellent opportunity to catch up on email, read a book, or watch a movie. Staying connected to friends and family can also be a great way to reduce anxiety. Finally, staying organized and planning can reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed.

• Utilize Mental Health Resources 

If available, you should utilize airline mental health resources. Join a support group of peers who deal with similar stressors. Connecting with a group of people will help you in managing stress. Plus, it can provide a sense of community.

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Conclusion

It is normal for a flight attendant to experience stressors that can be difficult to manage. It is essential to have strategies in place to avoid burnout. Having a plan will allow you to manage your anxiety better. 

Taking the appropriate steps to reduce stress ensures you feel your best while working. Being in a better position to manage the demands of your job means you will more likely have a fulfilling career. 

So hop to it and apply these tips to create a plan to eliminate stressors.