How can I get past driving anxiety?

Question

As of March 2006 I have 4 kids so we bought a mini van. I used to drive 100 on the interstate - no problem - in a car. Ever since we got this van I've been having anxiety attacks BAD. I can't drive on the interstate at all. Now it's getting worse. I have to drive a country type road (2.8 miles) to get home and having attacks on that road too. I feel like I might pass out or something, I sweat, scared to death I might pass out at the wheel, shaking like he** by the time I get home... I've tried the "mind over matter" thing (try to concentrate on music, etc)and it's not working AT ALL. Any ideas getting over this? Used to take xanex for anxiety but not taking anything and trying to get by this without pills.

By the way I've had plenty of practice - yesterday was my 34th bday. I'm stuck with the van - changing vehicles isn't an option for a while - I used to drive a suburban and had no problem with that so I don't think it's the size.

Answer 1

There are several tricks and tips, and trust me it is not the van that is causing your attacks. Deep breathing helps especially when you make noise exhaling, breathe in for 8 seconds hold it for 8 seconds and breathe out for 8 seconds. There is also the 4 R's: React, Retreat, Relax, Repeat. I know every shortcut there is in the DFW area. It can be a very uncomfortable feeling. Sometimes you just have to stop and assess the whole situation of what is causing this and deal with that issue. Sometimes you can get it so built up that you literally make yourself have an attack before you even leave and get in the van. Some other things you can try is hard candy and counting backwards from 100 in threes, 100, 97, 94 etc. You have to change the channel in your head. Being the mother of 4 is a very stressful job with a lot of demands on your time. Also take 10 minutes or more a day just for you. I have been through therapy and spent $$$ to glean these nuggets. Also have you ever taken a sample test for ADD? At 52 I was diagnosed and now finally it all makes sense. I have been able to do things that I never would have thought possible a few years ago.

I hope this helps you and know that I am thinking about you and you are not the only one that has ever felt this way.

Answer 2

As long as there is nothing physically wrong with you, you have to keep on driving. Face the "fear" head on. The mind is a powereful thing. Once you start having one physical symptom like sweating, trembling you start freaking out and its all downhill from there. The anxiety symptoms you are experiencing are just physical symptoms. You need to realize that and go on. Those physical symptoms will pass eventually. You cannot give in to those feelings. Be strong. Think positive. You are the boss within yourself. Drive everyday. Don't let those feelings control your life. Unless your physical symptoms are crippling, you have no reason to become dependent on a drug. YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!!!

Answer 3

I've had panic attack in cars for years. My regular doctor sent me to a mental health Ph.D. We tried a lot of imagary. I had homework assignments. It helped a little. Finally, my doctor put me on 1/4 of 1 mg. Lorazapam. It seems to work for me. Does not make me sleepy. I only use it on highway trips of some distance. Short trips, I use imagary. Good Luck!

Answer 4

Cure Social Anxiety Shyness - http://SocialAnxiety.uzaev.com/?orUx

Answer 5

you're not anxious you're jsut inpatient and a potent car lets you swerve and go as fast as you can and a minivan doesn't. Save up some money and buy a car cash . Some poeple seel their used cars for as low as $800. you can get one like that ove a period of 6 months if you can save the money if not sooner. You just got used to being able to speed and go to where you want to go and get there quick and with the new car you can't as easily

Answer 6

maybe a van is not the vehicle for you it may be to big try a car or something like a jeep

Answer 7

i would say practice makes purfect