We’ve all been there, right? You’re standing in a queue and suddenly the walls feel like they’re closing in. How did they manage to cram this many sweaty people into this pre-show room? And why the heck is it so stuffy in here?
I’ve got 5 tried and true tips to help minimize your anxiety in a queue and stop it in its tracks when you start to feel the panic setting in. You ready? Let’s dive in.
5 – Know Your Options
First things first, it’s important to figure out exactly what you’re in for. Some attractions offer very easy-to-exit queues while others can feel like a maze once you’re in there. You can always exit any queue and many riders decide not to ride once getting to the loading station. Just ask a cast member before you board the ride vehicle and they will tell you exactly how to exit.
However, if you’re feeling antsy just part-way through your wait time – it’s great to know where and when you can easily leave the queue. For this reason, I’ve intentionally included as many details as possibly in my ride reviews so you know exactly what’s coming before you hop in that line. I’d recommend studying up on a ride if you’re nervous about it, and check out a good POV video (like the ones I’ll link below) to get a visual before you get there.
For Example
Let’s take a look at two Disney attractions – one with a queue that’s really easy to exit, and one that’s a bit less accommodating.
It’s a Small World in Magic Kingdom has a very easy-breezy queue that takes you simply around the loading platform before arriving right at the ride vehicles. In fact, the entrance is located right above the station, winding around a large open area and down some ramps before depositing you on the loading platform.
While it may take a few “pardon me’s” to get back to the entrance, it should be easy for most guests to exit the way they came without much of an issue. There are no tight hallways or even internal rooms throughout the queue, giving you just a short distance to get back outside.
For more specifics on It’s a Small World, go check out my in-depth ride review here! Also, if you’re looking for a visual of the ride and queue, be sure to check out this video from LaughingPlace.
On the other end of the spectrum, Rise of the Resistance over in Hollywood Studios has a very closed-off queue that is certainly more difficult to exit for most riders. While a fraction of the line remains outside, the vast majority of your time will be spent in tight caves and catacombs as you descend deeper into the Resistance base.
While you – of course – can still exit at any time, it may be much more difficult to maneuver back towards the exit while being in such close quarters with other guests. On top of that, much of the ride experience is more like a performance with live actors and walking between different rooms. Because of this, it could be very hard to exit if you are in one of the pre-show sequences – between the queue and the start of the actual ride.
However, it is still possible to exit the attraction before boarding the ride vehicles. As stated above, you can just inform a cast member that you’ve decided not to ride and they will be more than happy to assist you.
For more specifics on Rise of the Resistance, go check out my in-depth ride review here! Also, if you’re looking for a visual of the ride and queue, be sure to check out this video from 4K WDW.
4 – Come Prepared
Much like the previous tip about knowing your options and what to expect – it’s also important to come prepared with everything you might need to help curb your anxiety. Does sipping on some water help? Are you more comfortable in light clothing or a comfy sweatshirt? Whatever it may be, do what you can ahead of time to make sure you’re ready for that long, scary queue line.
For Example
Personally, I’m always sure to bring my whole backpack into the queue. Unlike some other theme parks, Disney allows bags onto every attraction as long as it fits into the holding area. This is great for those of us who get anxious in queues because we can have whatever we need within reach at all times.
A few things I bring are:
- Plenty of water
- Tylenol/other first aid items just in case
- A cooling rag or fan
- Mint gum
- Something to keep me busy
Everyone has their own particular things that make them feel prepared and in control – just be sure to bring them with you on park day!
3 – Fuel Your Body
This tip may seem pretty obvious – but not giving my body what it needs to function properly is basically a death sentence on overly anxious days. This could be as simple as putting lunch off too late – or as specific as going for that Diet Coke refill when I’ve already got the jitters. Knowing how your body operates best is so important when managing anxiety in general, and park days are no different.
For Example
I always make sure my blood sugar doesn’t get too low by bringing plenty of snacks (healthy and protein-rich are definitely best). Many times, I don’t even realize I’m hungry until my anxiety starts acting up, so I’m always sure to stay ahead of my hunger. This can be really hard to do on a busy park day, but it’s so worth the small effort it takes.
In addition to making sure I’m eating well and regularly throughout the day, I completely stay away from caffeine. Personally, nothing stirs up my panic attacks like too much caffeine, so I usually reach for decaf coffee in the mornings and skip the soft drinks if I can stand it. The difference between a caffeine-loaded day and limiting myself is astronomical – so it may be something to look into if you think you may be significantly affected by caffeine.
2 – Give Yourself a Task
Here’s a fun one – give yourself something to do! If just standing around talking to your friends and family isn’t cutting it, use your couple hours in line to catch up on some emails, listen to a podcast, or play a game. There’s no rule that says you have to sit there and chat or look around the whole time – even if you’re on vacation in Disney World. If watching your favorite show with your AirPods in will help curb your anxiety in line – just do it!
For Example
One of my favorite things to do when I’m feeling nervous in a queue is play the “Heads Up” game with my family or friends. This particular game is a phone app that’s easy to download and play – and as long as you’re respectful of those around you and aren’t too loud – it’s a great way to pass the time.
1 – Sensory Stimulation
My #1 tip for managing anxiety anywhere – but especially in a queue – is sensory stimulation. Many times, when we are feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated it is extremely helpful to ground yourself using your surroundings and every sense that you can – smell, taste, touch, sound, and sight.
For Example
There are many things you can do to stimulate your senses in line, but here are a few of my favorites:
- Look around you for 5 things you can touch, then 5 things you can smell, etc.
- Find 5 things of each color of the rainbow in your immediate surroundings
- Chew mint gum or suck on hard candy
- Sip on water (the colder, the better)
- Play with a popper toy or stress ball
- Braid your hair – or someone’s that you came with
- Listen to music or watch a relaxing video or show on your phone
What do you think? Do you agree with my Top 5 Tips for Managing Anxiety in a Queue? Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know!
