A father of two died less than a week after he was diagnosed with a
first appeared on PetHelpful on Jun 4, 2025Summer vacation season is quickly approaching, and just under half of Americans are planning trips in the coming months. For many, this prospect brings excitement—however, for others it triggers a complex web of worries collectively known as travel anxiety.
If you find yourself counting down to your vacation with dread rather than excitement, you're not alone; in fact,has shown that about 18% of U.S. adults have travel anxiety. Behind this phenomenon are evidence-backed neurological underpinnings. A 2022 Cornell Universitydemonstrated increased amygdala activity—the brain's fear center—for people in the middle of travel planning. This anxiety can manifest as fear of flying, apprehension about unfamiliar surroundings, separation anxiety from home, or health concerns while traveling.
Vivian Chung Easton, a mental health clinician at, a therapist enablement technology platform explains that, “while travel anxiety exists on a spectrum from slight uneasiness to debilitating fear that prevents travel altogether—there are ways to significantly reduce these feelings at every stage of your trip.” Let's explore how to build your own mental health tool kit for more peaceful travel experiences.
Ensuring anxiety-free travel begins weeks before departure. Research shows that preparation should include intentional mental health provisions alongside booking accommodations and planning activities.
The journey itself—whether by plane, train, or car—often represents peak anxiety for travelers. Fortunately there are several science-backed techniques that can help you stay grounded.The findings also noted that Utah is among the top five happiest states in general and is a spot where more than two-fifths (44 percent) actively volunteer, which is the highest rate in the nation.
"This not only means Utah's aging population is staying connected and involved with their community, but volunteering also contributes significantly to Utah seniors' well-being and happiness," the findings added.with a score of 7.38, thanks to most of its seniors living with others, ensuring fewer people are experiencing loneliness. And as the findings stated, it's a fantastic spot for seniors looking to live an active lifestyle with "30 state parks to explore and proximity to national treasures like Yellowstone."
Rounding out the top three is Connecticut, with a score of 7.01, thanks to its strong statistics, including the third-highest average life expectancy, access to health care, and its ranking among the top 10 happiest states overall on WalletHub's rankings.Ready to find more happiness? See the full report and where your state ranks on