Learning To Overcome Driving Phobia

By Richard Thomas


Many individuals suffer from certain anxieties on a daily basis. One that is quite common is that of driving phobia. Simply getting behind the wheel of a vehicle can start with a hesitant resistance to operating a car, which could lead to a straight up denial. Refusing to drive is considered a phobia, especially when fear paralyzes the individual.

This type of phobia is most often associated with agoraphobia. This is a fear of open spaces. However, it is not the open space that causes the fear, but it is fearing the loss of control. Those that suffer with this type of anxiety often fear that they will be stuck in a traffic jam and unable to get away if they have a panic attack. Even having to merge into another lane or being next to a big truck can bring about fear.

These anxiety symptoms are very similar to other forms of anxiety. They can include sweating profusely, confusion, dizziness, shortness of breath or heart palpitations just to name a few. These symptoms make a person feel like they are about to lose it or go crazy. Having these type of feelings makes it difficult to function; especially when transportation is needed to get from one place to the next.

Car anxieties can start in numerous ways. Sometimes, a person can experience a car accident, or a situation where they almost got into an accident. Although the situation is over, the mind subconsciously, still wants to prevent it from occurring again. This anxiety can show up out of the blue. Those that are prone to anxiety may have a situation where it manifests while driving.

Low blood sugar can be instrumental in bringing about anxiety. Having low blood sugar and trying to operate a vehicle can evolve into a dangerous situation. A drop in sugar levels usually occurs when a person has not had enough to eat, or consumes too much sugar. Those that live with diabetes need to be extra cautious.

Anxieties can occur when an individual tries to avoid operating a car, and in the process, completely stops driving at all. Constant avoidance makes it difficult for a person to return to normal functioning. Operating a car in fear is a learned behavior that can be modified. Here are some keys that will help an individual get back to a state of comfort.

Driving on an empty stomach should be avoided, especially for individuals that have diabetes. Learning what foods to avoid is a definite plus. Staying away from caffeine is always a advantageous because it is known to trigger anxiety. Carpooling is a great option because when an individual is distracted and engaged in conversation, it leaves less room for certain behaviors to take over.

It is true that anxiety doesn't feel good, but it definitely does not kill. It's manageability depends on how a person manages it, as well as react towards it. The fear of driving is not something a person has to live with, but something they can definitely triumph over.




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