I'm 19 and have avoided getting my driver's license because of the anxiety I get in cars. I've been in quite a few minor accidents and scary situations so I would rather do just about anything then get in a car. It's even taken a toll on most of my friendships because I hate the car rides to/from whatever we're doing and my anxiety is so high that it ruins my ability to enjoy myself. I know how to drive a car but I can't work up the courage to actually drive into a populated area (I have a permit so it would be perfectly legal). I always have a huge panic attack, pull over sobbing when we get to paved roads and force the person with me to drive us home. I live in an area notorious for bad driving and I've seen too much crazy driving here for me to trust other people on the road. Any advice on how to get over this?
Hi doubleanx. There are no places notorious for having good drivers. My advice would be to take every opportunity to go driving driving during times when the traffic is less in your area. Sunday afternoons, very late at night or very early in the morning etc.. This might ease you into being a bit more comfortable with driving in full traffic if forced to do so. This is one of those fears that you need to figure out how much you're going to allow it to effect your life. Another suggestion is to get your full license as soon as possible. That will show yourself that you're a fully capable driver able to handle any traffic situation if you choose. You're not alone in refusing to tackle big city traffic, many folks feel that way and if that's where your thinking ends up, you're in good company.
I have been driving for many years and it is not one of the things I enjoy. When I was going through a high anxiety period, I would get anxiety and have panic attacks. I remember one day I had a panic attack so bad, I thought I was going to have to pull over off the road but I manage to get home. At that time I had Xanax so I took 1/2 which calmed me down. I no longer have panic attacks while driving...but a little anxiety from time to time which I manage pretty good. The key for me was not giving up on driving..no matter how bad it got. I agree with the other post, drive in early morning hours before the traffic gets too heavy. I do that sometimes when I go to get grocery.I'm 19 and have avoided getting my driver's license because of the anxiety I get in cars. I've been in quite a few minor accidents and scary situations so I would rather do just about anything then get in a car. It's even taken a toll on most of my friendships because I hate the car rides to/from whatever we're doing and my anxiety is so high that it ruins my ability to enjoy myself. I know how to drive a car but I can't work up the courage to actually drive into a populated area (I have a permit so it would be perfectly legal). I always have a huge panic attack, pull over sobbing when we get to paved roads and force the person with me to drive us home. I live in an area notorious for bad driving and I've seen too much crazy driving here for me to trust other people on the road. Any advice on how to get over this?
MainerMikeBrown
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Doubleanx, while driving, practicing breathing exercises may calm you down some. It's worth a shot.
Hi doubleanx, being in a car is a fear for me also. I make sure to always wear my seatbelt and try not be distracted.I'm 19 and have avoided getting my driver's license because of the anxiety I get in cars. I've been in quite a few minor accidents and scary situations so I would rather do just about anything then get in a car. It's even taken a toll on most of my friendships because I hate the car rides to/from whatever we're doing and my anxiety is so high that it ruins my ability to enjoy myself. I know how to drive a car but I can't work up the courage to actually drive into a populated area (I have a permit so it would be perfectly legal). I always have a huge panic attack, pull over sobbing when we get to paved roads and force the person with me to drive us home. I live in an area notorious for bad driving and I've seen too much crazy driving here for me to trust other people on the road. Any advice on how to get over this?
MainerMikeBrown
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I feel much more comfortable and safe while driving or riding in a car if I have my seatbelt on, and with good reason.
Thank you for the suggestion! I had honestly never thought to go out really early in the morning but that's a wonderful idea. I think it will help a lot for me to get comfortable driving on the roads before having to worry about other people.Hi doubleanx. There are no places notorious for having good drivers. My advice would be to take every opportunity to go driving driving during times when the traffic is less in your area. Sunday afternoons, very late at night or very early in the morning etc.. This might ease you into being a bit more comfortable with driving in full traffic if forced to do so. This is one of those fears that you need to figure out how much you're going to allow it to effect your life. Another suggestion is to get your full license as soon as possible. That will show yourself that you're a fully capable driver able to handle any traffic situation if you choose. You're not alone in refusing to tackle big city traffic, many folks feel that way and if that's where your thinking ends up, you're in good company.