What to do if you experience panic or anxiety while driving

Many people develop an excessive fear of getting behind the wheel of a car, this may be due to an injury or panic caused by some other circumstance that may not even have to do with the car.

It's not unusual to be stressed while driving, especially in heavy traffic. But For some people, driving anxiety complicates things.. Some may develop a phobia due to post-traumatic stress related to an accident or witnessing a serious incident.

Experiencing a car breakdown can also be a harrowing experience. Practicing car safety can help. But for some, the panic may be related to something unrelated to driving.

Symptoms of motophobia

If you are experiencing extreme fear for no logical reason, you may be having a panic attack. It differs from an anxiety attack that occurs when you are worried about something. Any of these conditions are difficult to manage while driving because your attention must be focused on the road.

A real panic attack, as its name suggests. This puts you into a state of panic. According to , symptoms include the following:

– Rapid heartbeat and palpitations.

– Dizziness and/or tingling sensation.

- Difficulty breathing and sometimes a feeling of suffocation.

– Sudden onset of sweating and/or chills.

– Pain in the chest, head or stomach.

- Extreme fear.

- Feeling like you're losing control.

You can inherit panic attacks from your family. They can also occur due to post-traumatic stress from something unrelated to driving. Major life changes and stress can also trigger seizures. panic.

What to do if you experience panic or anxiety while driving?

If you're afraid of driving or generally feel comfortable behind the wheel, there are a few things you can do to help calm yourself down when you're experiencing intense driving anxiety. If someone is with you, tell them how you feel. Pull off the road if possible. If you are in a safe place, get out of the car and walk. And if you can't stop, try one or more of the following:

- Turn on the air conditioner so that it blows in your face, or open the windows.

– Play your favorite music or podcast.

– Have a cold soft drink.

– Gently suck on the sweet and sour lollipop.

– Take long, deep breaths.

Some people are lucky enough to experience only one panic attack in their lives. For others, the attacks may continue. If you have experienced this while driving, you should be prepared for it to happen again.. Carry water and a cold bottle of your favorite drink with you at all times. Also keep a stash of your favorite candy in the car.

Diagnosis and treatment of fear of driving

Phobias are not that uncommon. About 12% of Americans are very afraid of something, whether it's elevators, spiders or driving a car. If you are worried about driving, using a vehicle that is known to have a good safety record can help. But you should also see a mental health professional. There are treatments for phobias and panic attacks. A doctor or therapist can help you decide which one will work best for you.

Sometimes it's better to fight anxiety. Stopped to rest if you can keep going it will help you know that you can overcome fear.

Learning what you can do best will help you in the future, whether you're experiencing driving anxiety or panic attacks. Medications can also help by reducing the chance of full-blown panic attacks.

Most of us use our cars on a daily or almost daily basis. We commute to and from work, take the kids to school, go to the market, and do other errands. For those suffering from anxiety driving or experiencing panic attacks, finding the best treatment is key to addressing these and other driving needs.

Helping you learn to manage your anxiety can even help you enjoy driving. Maybe you're even ready for the next one.

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