A major concern many panic attack sufferers have is that of panic attacks while driving. And this is no surprise as panic attacks are rooted in anxieties and fears and what could be scarier than having a panic attack while responsible for a vehicle moving at 60 miles per hour. The consequences of panic attacks while driving truly could be life threatening (although not all driving anxiety stems from a fear of an accident). Now while these fears can be very intense, with the right preparation and practice, you can assure yourself that, in reality, these outcomes you fear are highly unlikely and regain your comfort, composure, and confidence behind the wheel.
Triggers
Sometimes people have panic attacks while driving because they already have some sort of driving anxiety. In fact, fear of driving is much more widespread than you may suspect. Automobile accidents are very common and it is not unusual for someone who has been involved in one to have developed an anxiety associated with driving. Although this fear of an accident may be the main cause of driving anxiety, panic attacks do also occur due to other fears and anxieties. One of these is the anxiety rooted in the feeling of being trapped. Traffic jams combined with the small confines of a vehicle can cause someone unnecessary stress, resulting in a panic attack. Even anxiety from being lost on the road can trigger an attack.
Your Ace in the Hole
Symptoms of panic attacks while driving include sweaty palms, the clenching of the steering wheel, pounding heart, and shortness of breath. If you feel any of these symptoms appearing and fear you may be having a panic attack, know that you can (and should) always switch the emergency lights on and pull over to the side of the road. Now think about that for a second. If your primary fear is that of having a panic attack in this dangerous situation, you can always put on your emergency lights and pull over. Just knowing this one fact should assuage your fear a bit.
Calm Yourself Before Driving
There are a few other mental methods of bringing more comfort to you for driving situations. If you feel anxiety out of fear of an accident, ask yourself about your driving record. If you have a great driving record and are a safe driver, you can affirm this fact to yourself. Also, if you’re anxious about an accident, you should know that drivers that are worried about an accident become much more attentive and in turn, drive much safely. So realize that the simple fact that you’ve worried about an accident is going to make your drive that much safer. It can be especially helpful to go through and affirm these thoughts before you start driving.
Make The Drive Enjoyable
In addition to mental encouragement to ease your worries, there are also many things you can do to prepare yourself to be comfortable while driving. These are especially helpful if the stress and anxiety you feel results from the feeling of being trapped. Prepare a collection of relaxing music and prepare some snacks to keep you comfortable. Another idea is to get a GPS device so that you know you’ll never be lost and will always have the directions home.