Driving can be a scary experience and some people may need Panic attacks help to get back in the driving seat. Getting nervous about driving is common, however fear of driving may prevent some people from driving at all. Causes of such dread depends on each individual. Having been in an accident or knowing someone close who’s been in one can trigger fear and anxiety about driving.
Having an anxiety attack is just the body’s way of responding to a threat or fear. Simply having feelings, thoughts and images of fear can trigger the ‘fight or flight’ response. In prehistoric times the stress response enabled man to fight with more speed, strength and alertness. Come the 21st century and the stress response is no longer being faced by a hungry beast with big teeth. Today we find that the biggest cause of the stress response is stress itself.
This is a common problem, and in people with phobias and anxiety disorders it is much more frequent. Tests reveal that people with anxiety disorders have a far more sensitive response to stress and anxiety than the average person. Driving fears may sometimes be linked to a distressing experience but usually they develop over time. In most cases a number of smaller frightening experiences lead up to a panic attack.
People who fear driving may have specific reasons that cause them anxiety such as; being held up in traffic, driving through bad weather, driving down a hill and getting lost. Attacks may seem to come out of the blue. The heart starts to pound, the body tightens up and the driver fears of losing control over the vehicle. It is a terrifying experience that can put both the driver and others around them at risk.
It’s not surprising that some people refuse of dread getting back into a vehicle. Some people may be happy to not drive again while others may seek Panic Attacks Treatment to cure their fear. For some people it may be impractical to not drive.
Your doctor may advise medication or therapy as panic attacks help. Anxiety medication may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and the occurrence of panic attacks, but advice from a doctor must be sought before taking medication. There are possible side effects with prescription medication such as drowsiness that could make driving more dangerous. Non-medicated ways of treatment such as CBT and exposure therapy are much more suited.
Other means of Panic Attacks help include therapies such as EFT and hypnotherapy as well as visualization and meditation. Preparation is a great help for those who are anxious about driving. Don’t get into a car in an emotional state. Go through a breathing exercise to calm you before you drive. Some helpful things to take are; a cell phone, a CD and a paper bag in case you hyperventilate.
For long journeys always map out a route unless you know it by heart. Don’t drive when the roads are really busy. Put on the radio or a CD to calm you and pay attention to any tension that you have. Keep your shoulders relaxed and breathe steadily. Reassure yourself with positive self talk like ‘I am a confident driver and I will get to my destination safe and sound.’
When symptoms of anxiety start it can be frightening, but stay composed, breathe and remember that what you’re feeling is merely the overproduction of adrenaline and the sensations will subside. As soon as you think that you’re going to have a panic attack, find a safe place to pull over. Some people find breathing into a paper bag helps them to calm down. If you don’t feel fit to drive don’t, try to call for assistance instead.
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