Driving can be a scary experience and some people may need Panic Attacks Help to get back in the driving seat. It’s not uncommon to feel a little nervous driving but some of us may find it extremely difficult or impossible to get in a car, without fear of having a panic attack. Causes of such dread depends on each individual. A traumatic experience such as being involved in a car accident or witnessing one, can ingrain terrifying thoughts and images into the subconscious.

When a person perceives a threat or danger the body responds to this, which in some people can be interpreted as an anxiety attack. This stress response can be set off with mere thoughts and feelings of danger. During man’s early years, where fending off prey was necessary, the adrenaline fueled fight or flight response was key to man’s survival. However, in the modern world this response has become more redundant. Today we find that the biggest cause of the stress response is stress itself.

Stress affects everyone and particularly people with stress related illnesses. 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. Several small incidences of panic can build up and cause an attack.

Driving in an unfamiliar area, stuck in a traffic jam, being honked at, driving at high speeds on the highway and getting lost; these experiences can all instill fear of driving. In just a few seconds a little fear can turn into a panic attack. 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.

Anti-anxiety medication or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are two forms of panic attacks help you might expect from your physician. It’s essential to speak to a physician before taking any medication before driving. Some medications may cause drowsiness and impair driving. Non-medicated ways of treatment such as CBT and exposure therapy are much more suited.

Breathing exercises, EFT and positive affirmations are also useful for those looking for alternative Panic attacks help. If you’re a nervous driver it’s important to be prepared before driving. If you’re very anxious or stressed, avoid getting in the car. Go through a breathing exercise to calm you before you drive. Ensure that you take a cell phone in case of an emergency and some music to listen.

If you don’t have satellite navigation, make sure to plan your journey. Don’t drive when the roads are really busy. Turn on the radio to help soothe your nerves. As you drive, keep a relaxed and steady breath, and relax you body. Remind yourself that you will arrive safe and sound, and use positive affirmations.

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. If a panic attack is inevitable pull over to a safe area as soon as possible. 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.

Share This

Tags: anxiety, disorders, illness, panic, phobia

This entry was posted on Sunday, March 14th, 2010 at 10:58 am and is filed under Learning Problems. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.