Airplane Screenings: What's The Big Deal?

Well, for many travelers it *is* no big deal. They don't mind the enhanced pat downs or their naked bodies being seen on X-ray scanners.

But for millions of others, it is quite a to-do.

It's traumatizing to have someone put their hands on you. Or to find that your body scan has not been destroyed but rather saved and on display for others to see. It can be acutely distressing and humiliating to be submissive and under someone's control. Read here about a pilot who didn't feel fit to fly after an enhanced pat down. It can trigger flashbacks of abuse or feel like a sexual molestation. It may reveal more than you want others to know, like if you've had a mastectomy, wear a colostomy bag or are in the midst of gender reassignment, for example. Read here about a bladder cancer survivor's urine-soaked pat down. And if you witness another person's traumatic experience during an airplane screening, you can be emotionally effected. This is called vicarious trauma.

I understand the need for safety and security in this day and age. But these new security measures feel wrong on so many levels. I don't blame the TSA for following their orders. We need to appeal to those in charge, who clearly need to consult with trauma experts. The TSA has a job to do, but needs to appreciate the impact of trauma and to incorporate more sensitive measures.

Tips and Recommendations

1. If you are someone who is going to fly, head over to Dr. Kathleen Young's blog for links, tips and grounding techniques to minimize trauma.

2. Make sure you know your Passenger Rights.

3. Consider accessing grassroots movements like Opt Out Day and We Won't Fly.

4. Write to your US House of Representatives by clicking here.

5. Write your US Senator by linking here.

*** Trigger Alert for Video and Photo ***

Photo from John Wild/johnwild.info