![]() Start by sitting behind the wheel of a parked car in a safe, low-anxiety location. This approach requires exposure over time using baby steps. If the thought alone of driving sets you off, desensitization can be an effective method for dealing with your fear. The longer one goes without driving, the more the fear builds and the harder it is to get back behind the wheel. This can lead to avoidance which can enhance one’s fear of driving as they opt to avoid it altogether. This article from Healthline has more information on panic and anxiety disorders and how they manifest while driving.Īnother factor that can cause someone to experience driving anxiety is if they’ve been in an accident before. They might be too afraid to drive, even if their driving record is flawless. This fear usually affects those who have experienced panic attacks outside of driving. Panic attacks, or the fear of having a panic attack behind the wheel, is an even more serious form of driving anxiety. This can result in a self-fulfilling prophecy where the driver’s anxiety causes them to make the mistakes they were afraid of in the first place, and the cycle continues. This type of driver might worry about getting into an accident, but they might also fear aggravating other drivers. ![]() Lack of confidence is one common cause and is most likely to affect those who lack driving experience. There are many reasons why someone might experience a fear of driving. If you find yourself avoiding where or when you drive to escape discomfort, your anxiety is interfering with your life. The fear can manifest in many ways, from general discomfort behind the wheel to specific fears, such as rush hour, freeways, intersections or bridges. Do you struggle with driving anxiety?ĭriving anxiety becomes a problem when it starts interfering with your life. ![]() Whatever your hesitations around driving, this blog will help you identify the source and foster a healthy mindset behind the wheel. The good news is, most fear around driving is irrational and there are many strategies available to help reduce your apprehension. Driving anxiety is a common affliction among adults and can range from low-level discomfort to a full-on phobia. If you experience anxiety while in the car or behind the wheel, you’re not alone.
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