Quick Panic Attacks Help For Those Who Fear Driving
Driving can be a scary experience and some people may need Panic Attacks Help to get back in the driving seat. Getting nervous about driving is common, however fear of driving may prevent some people from driving at all. Causes of such dread depends on each individual. Being involved in a car crash or hearing about one can cause emotional trauma and feelings of anxiety and dread.
When a person perceives a threat or danger the body responds to this, which in some people can be interpreted as an anxiety attack. Emotional fear is enough to activate the fight or flight response. During man’s early years, where fending off prey was necessary, the adrenaline fueled fight or flight response was key to man’s survival. With no fear of being eaten in modern society, the fight or flight response has lost some of its usefulness. Our biggest enemy today is stress, and this alone can trigger the response unnecessarily.
We have all experienced stress and the symptoms of stress at some point in our lives and especially those with anxiety or depressive disorders. Tests reveal that people with anxiety disorders have a far more sensitive response to stress and anxiety than the average person. Fear of driving can develop gradually and is not always linked to a traumatic experience. In most cases a number of smaller frightening experiences lead up to a panic attack.
Getting caught in a traffic jam, missing your exit on the freeway, driving at night and driving over bridges; these are common situations that nervous drivers dread. In just a few seconds a little fear can turn into a panic attack. All of a sudden your heartbeat is racing, you begin to sweat profusely and you feel like your losing control. This kind of event can be very damaging and traumatic to the human psyche.
People who have suffered attacks may refuse to drive or get back into a car. Some people may be happy to not drive again while others may seek Panic attacks treatment to cure their fear. For some people it may be impractical to not drive.
Common panic attacks help comes in the form of therapy or medication. While medication can reduce the risk of attacks and symptoms, it is essential to seek advice from a doctor. Some medications may cause drowsiness and impair driving. Non-medicated ways of treatment such as CBT and exposure therapy are much more suited.
Breathing exercises, EFT and positive affirmations are also useful for those looking for alternative Panic attacks help. Preparation is a great help for those who are anxious about driving. Don’t get into a car in an emotional state. Before driving get yourself in a relaxed state through breathing exercises. Some helpful things to take are; a cell phone, a CD and a paper bag in case you hyperventilate.
Ensure that you plan your route carefully and you know exactly where you’re going. Don’t drive when the roads are really busy. When driving, play some music to help you relax and be aware of your body. Take nice and slow easy breaths and let your shoulders drop. Reassure yourself with positive self talk like ‘I am a confident driver and I will get to my destination safe and sound.’
If you start to feel anxious, don’t worry, continue to breathe deeply and reassure yourself that it’s just adrenaline in your body. If a panic attack is inevitable pull over to a safe area as soon as possible. You may find breathing into a paper bag helpful for controlling your breath. If you don’t feel fit to drive don’t, try to call for assistance instead.