How do I get over my driving jitters?
I’m 19 and I am so nervous when it comes to driving. I actually have panic attacks when I get out on the road. I still haven’t taken my drivers test or anything because I’m so nervous. I’m actually considering just using public transportation for the rest of my life because I don’t think I’ll ever be comfortable driving. How do I get over this? Help! Thanks in advance!
Hi! I’m so sorry to hear you’re feeling bad. I used to get panic atatcks over driving. I think you should go out with a professional instructor in the first instance. However, to help you feel mor rationally about it and to get rid of your panic attacks, try the following 3 steps (they eliminated my panic attacks of 15 years):
1.Breathe properly – if you control your breathing, you control panic. As soon as you notice the signs of anxiety, check your breathing: breathe in slowly through your nose pushing your tummy out (to the count of 5 or so). Breathe out slowly and for a bit longer (to the count of 7 or so) through your mouth. Do not breathe rapidly or shallowly (in the chest area). This will soon restore the balance of oxygen and you will feel a lot better.
2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy! CBT is proven to be the most effective thing for panic attacks and social anxiety. It takes a bit of work, but it is super effective. You can speak to your doctor about taking a course or you can take a course for free online at: http://www.livinglifetothefull.com/ It has been funded by NHS Scotland and has had great results thus far.
3. Try relaxation exercise tapes (progressive muscular relaxation). They really help if you practise often enough. This site has instructions on how to do it without the tapes (and other useful info): http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/minipax.cfm?mini_ID=23
With each of these steps, practise makes perfect. I hope this helps and you feel better soon. Don’t give up hope! Best of luck!
Comments
Comment from Moonface
Time November 16, 2009 at 1:11 pm
Hi! I’m so sorry to hear you’re feeling bad. I used to get panic atatcks over driving. I think you should go out with a professional instructor in the first instance. However, to help you feel mor rationally about it and to get rid of your panic attacks, try the following 3 steps (they eliminated my panic attacks of 15 years):
1.Breathe properly – if you control your breathing, you control panic. As soon as you notice the signs of anxiety, check your breathing: breathe in slowly through your nose pushing your tummy out (to the count of 5 or so). Breathe out slowly and for a bit longer (to the count of 7 or so) through your mouth. Do not breathe rapidly or shallowly (in the chest area). This will soon restore the balance of oxygen and you will feel a lot better.
2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy! CBT is proven to be the most effective thing for panic attacks and social anxiety. It takes a bit of work, but it is super effective. You can speak to your doctor about taking a course or you can take a course for free online at: http://www.livinglifetothefull.com/ It has been funded by NHS Scotland and has had great results thus far.
3. Try relaxation exercise tapes (progressive muscular relaxation). They really help if you practise often enough. This site has instructions on how to do it without the tapes (and other useful info): http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/minipax.cfm?mini_ID=23
With each of these steps, practise makes perfect. I hope this helps and you feel better soon. Don’t give up hope! Best of luck!
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Comment from Seth C
Time November 16, 2009 at 12:36 pm
get in a car with alot of power and just roast the **** out of the tires so you can see what you are missing
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