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| Driving anxiety/ fear of driving |
Most of us couldn't wait to get our much anticipated driver's license; a passport to freedom and independence. But what about people who battle with driving anxiety? There are people who have a fear of being behind the wheel; who feel panicky and overwhelmed; where their fear has become a subconscious habit that restricts their freedom. Many of those suffering with a driving phobia recognize their so-called unreasonable fear of driving, but they feel unable to change their situation. Being afraid to drive can be a major handicap; more so if driving is part of the job you do.
Being afraid of drivinghas actually resulted in many people quitting driving altogether, and this is when a fear of driving can be considered a phobia driving anxiety can be fairly mild or it can be severe. Some people may not like to drive in peak hour traffic; others may not like to drive in a storm while there are those who tremble at the thought of sitting behind the wheel. They make sure someone else drives, or failing that, they rather make use of public transport.
Causes of Fear of Driving
Just like any other phobia, driving anxietycan produce some nasty symptoms such as intense sweating, dizziness, a churning stomach, chest pains, heart palpitations, unsteady, shaky hands and weak, jelly-like legs. The causes of driving anxiety are varied. Some people may have been criticized for their driving and for failing numerous driving tests. They fear that they may cause an accident that can result in the death of someone.
Other people have been in an accident and can't face being in a car; let alone driving. People who suffer with panic attacks fear driving because they know how easily they can lose control of their vehicle and crash. Stress is another major factor in fear of driving and may require making lifestyle changes to eliminate that stress. There is professional help available to deal with stress and a medical expert may suggest meditation, hypnotherapy, yoga or even learning different breathing techniques. The AA also offers a free, short Drive Confidence course.
Tips which Make Driving Easier
A fear of driving is normal; many people fear driving and fortunately there is a cure. Of course there are many different types of medications which treat phobias such as anti-anxiety drugs which are short-term and which are not a cure. Driving an automatic car can be helpful with avoiding driving anxiety too as then you don't need to worry about indicators and gear sticks with sweaty hands. Get broken things fixed immediately like faulty brakes or missing mirrors. A navigation system can be like having another pair of eyes on the road for you. A GPS will instruct you where to go and provide you with live traffic updates, giving you plenty of time to change lanes.
Help with Driving Fear
Any kind of anxiety medication can be a wonderful temporary relief, but you want something which treats the underlying cause. Remember that drugs or alcohol taken to avoid anxious feelings will only serve to intensify problem. Drinking is certainly a handicap and not a help.
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