This is way late to help the OP, but I'll put my own two
cents in there for others who might need help.

I always pop an anti anxiety pill before a flight (I use
lorazapam) so that I don't start panicking to begin with.

During the flight itself, I put on some music and huddle up
to myself. I also try to avoid looking at anybody. The
music drowns out any potential unpleasant noises I may
hear.