Holiday panic again !

OP whilst perhaps not quite as anxious I can identify with you,especially your comment about becoming more introverted.I'm still very much working, but self employed and not part of a 'team',spending a fair part of each day on my own.Life events over the last few years, some sudden and unexpected I think have led to me me craving as quiet, peaceful and stress free time as possible.I know that's unrealistic.
I used to love the whole going on holiday,arriving at the airport thing but now find it all such hard work.Last year we did go abroad ,and had a lovely time once there ,but I literally didn't sleep properly for several days before and felt like cancelling too.
I'm going away tomorrow, in this country without DH to stay with a much loved friend,and it involves several train changes and I tossed and turned all last night ,and at the moment-especially seeing the weather forecast!- feel I can't be bothered with the pfaff of the journey.But I've kept promising my friend I will visit her new home and will not give in, or I will end up going nowhere.I love my home and garden,and animals. STARBIRD a dog and a cat relax you at home,but many people feel anxiety leaving them behind.In fact our main holiday this year is a cottage in this country,and we are taking our dogs with us.DH is fine with that ,although he's said next year he wants a hot sunny relaxing holiday and for his sake I will go.It's not fear of flying,which I appreciate can be crippling.Just the whole general anxiety about leaving home,packing and tickets etc.And that home is where I feel truly relaxed.What a pain!

Oops sorry.Meant to say it's NOT fear of flying with me.Once on the plane I'm fine.It's the whole build up before hand.And the actual airports nowadays. Experiencing several very long delays over the years, after getting up in the middle of the night for an early flight and being stuck in the airport all day,hasn't helped my mindset either.But OP that's probably not helpful mentioning that!I hope that your trip goes well and you feel it's worth it.Like you I probably need to explore some relaxing techniques and strategies for the future. All the best.

We're lucky enough to have travelled a lot, and can now take advantage of cheap fares and off peak trips, which we love. I've always enjoyed the journey and even the airport, but that aspect's certainly more stressful now.

We went to Center Parcs last week with the family, and I'd forgotten how relaxing a holiday can be. Even with all the grandchildren in tow, it was just so laidback and stress-free. Just an hour's drive to get there and then everything within pleasant walking distance. I realise it doesn't help you enjoy preparing for the holiday you have booked, but I'd certainly recommend trying something like this next time if you want to relax.

GrannyLynn - try to breakdown the problems you see into those you can do something about, and those which can't be changed. Last year I cancelled my visit to family in the UK, for various reasons - mainly practical. The main things are getting to &from the airport (M25) only one toilet up steep stairs in their house, I sleep badly etc.
I really want to see them though so might make the effort again this year. ( A commode - never, I hope.) Don't want to admit that I'm past it.
They do come to us.

GrannyLynn, How sad that what should be pleasurable anticipation is a source of such anxiety. What is the purpose of your holiday? Are you going abroad to visit someone? Are you going on your own? Are you going somewhere you have always wanted to visit? Sorry to sound nosy but it does help to have an objective at the end of a flight. Before my joints began to fall apart, I went on Ramblers' Holidays which gave me an objective to research before I departed and good company when I arrived.
Whatever your purpose or expectations, I hope you enjoy your holiday and - with your misgivings dispelled - will be eager to book another one soon!

Grannylyne, I understand completely. When ive booked a holiday I start worrying and pack my case weeks beforehand. I find that when I get on the train or even plane, the worry goes and I feel free and excited ! And that's going on my own.

Lived on my own over 25 years!
Last holiday was over 6 years ago with 'Solos'
Decided on a last holiday after retirement. Am booked for Sicily in September.
Seen GP last night and starting on new medication and several suggestions re CBT Moodjuice ??
Been there done that !!!
In retrospect would have done a last minute holiday!!