Learning To Combat Driving Phobia

By Richard Thomas


Anxieties are real, and many people struggle with them from day to day. One that is very common simply deals with getting behind a steering wheel. It can simply start with a small hesitation to drive, to a full out refusal. When one refuses to drive it is considered a driving phobia. A phobia is defined as being an irrational fear that can be paralyzing.

Having a fear of open spaces is known as agoraphobia, which is often associated with the fear of driving. The fear is not derived from the presence of open spaces, but it is caused by having a feeling of the loss of self control. Some feel that they would be lost if they ever got stuck in traffic and were not able to get away. Even having to switch lanes could bring about fear.

Anxieties symptoms that come from operating a car are very similar to other anxiety forms. They may consist of confusion, heart palpitations, sweating profusely, and shortness of breath among other things. Individuals may feel like they are going to die or completely lose it. Functioning in society can become quite a task; especially when driving is considered a necessity. Public transportation may not always be a viable option.

Car anxieties can develop in many different ways. Individuals may find themselves in a near car accident. Even though nothing officially transpired, subconsciously, their mind tries to protect them from the same situation. These anxieties may be sporadic. However, those that have developed symptoms associated with anxiety, may find themselves in a situation where a manifestation occurs while driving.

Anxieties can begin to manifest when an individual's blood sugar drops while operating a vehicle. It can bring about fear. A drop in sugar levels can usually occur when a person fails to eat, or simply eats too many simple carbohydrates. Individuals with diabetes have to be very careful.

However, a phobia can develop when a person not only avoids driving, but simply stops altogether. The more an individual avoids it the harder it is to get back to it. It is true that the fear of driving is something that is learned, but it can also be overcome. There are a few ways for an individual to get back to feeling comfortable when out on the road.

One should never drive on an empty stomach; especially if they are one that suffers from diabetes. Learn what foods to avoid if they cause ill feelings after consumption. It is also a good idea to cut back on caffeine which is a definite trigger for anxiety. Also, consider the option of carpooling. When one is engaged in conversation, anxiety has less of a chance of taking over when a person is distracted.

Anxieties may feel uncomfortable, but they do not kill. Depending upon the individual, they can be managed. It all depends upon how a person reacts when they begin to surface. Phobias that evolve when an individual drives, do not have to become a way of life. They can be conquered.




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