This Friday there will be about one million people coming in and out of the city. If you deal with social anxiety or any other anxiety there are a few things you should be aware of before going to such a large crowd. There are things that I do to take care of me that can be applied to the parade but also other large gatherings such as concerts and more.
Wellness and Large Crowds Self Care
If you do not deal with anxiety than count your blessings. One thing that someone who deals with anxiety do NOT need to hear is that you who don’t that you don’t. I promise you are offering nothing to the situation even when you don’t. It’s like the people who don’t drink coffee on national coffee day letting others know. What are we supposed to do with that information? Keep it to yourself. However, for those like me who are excited about the parade or other large crowds I am here to offer tips in how I deal with it.
A few things off the bat:
• Don’t feel pressured to go anywhere
• Map out your area while there look for pockets where people aren’t
• Have a contingency plan in place
- Eat a balanced meal and drink in moderation
How to not let crowds stop your life
I have even gone to large crowd events by myself. How I did it was saved that muster of strength for something I really wanted to do. Last summer I did a lot of solo travel. I love to travel but it’s the destination and events that had me on edge. If you are traveling to Philadelphia, you should have your hotel by now many of them are sold out due to the Valentine’s Day holiday as well as the parade.
I try to get to my destination if I can at least 24 hours in advance. It’s pricier but I always stay within a walk or quick uber trip. For the parade get your Uber as close as you can to the festivities but know there will be a surge. Learning to do the things that I love but be cautious enough to look out for my best interest has served me well.
Plan for Success
At large crowds it’s imperative to have a plan in place and listen to yourself. I have attended events in and around Philly. People are nice. However, know your limitations. If you want a pro-tip, come from away from the crowd. You are dealing with your anxiety others are not. I use a special lens on my phone to allow crisper photos while I stand back. As everyone moves closer you step back. If your goal is to be there and celebrate you just being there is doing that.
As you move back this allow you to get your footing and see what you need to see. Continue to move as far back as far you can and need. When I attended several concerts, I asked for premium and regular seating. This allowed me to be able to be on the floor where all the fun was and take a break too. This worked for me.
Be prepared for what you need
I take the following to help
• Ear plugs or loops to cut the sound
• Tissues
• Hand sanitizer
• Mask
• Comfortable shoes
• A pressure band that is used for boats for seasick-helps with calming nerves while on the ground in crowds
• Cash and card
• Clear bag that wraps around me just in case I need to run or move from one location to another
• If you are going with others have a meet up spot in case, you get separated
• Several fast chargers and extra cords
Don’t go if you can’t do it
When the Eagles won the Super Bowl in 2018, I didn’t go. I went to work. No lie. My kids, husband, and baby brother all went. I understood the assignment of what I needed at the time. There is a good chance I may not go this year. If I do go it’s because my husband who is from here will make sure that my kids and I are safe.
Outside of that I will be at home cheering them at home while enjoying a beverage. Does that make me less of a fan if I don’t go? Nope and it won’t for you. Take care of you. Know that you should go down there with a full battery to start your time. Nothing is worse than being in an area and then having a cell phone die. Be prepared and take care of you. Enjoy it all if you choose to go. Not going? You’re not alone. I pray everyone is safe including my family and friends. The trains will be packed. Here is what you need from the City of Philadelphia to help you plan.
