A
female
age
36-40,
anonymous
writes:Hi aunts and uncles!Please can someone help.Since I passed my driving test 4 months ago I've developed a driving phobia. I'm a nervous person anyway and get panic attacks but I was fine driving with my instructor.When I passed me and my boyfriend went for a drive in to town- me driving and on the way back I got a really bad panic attack to the point where I just wanted to stop the car and get out. Luckily I was close to home so I carried on but when I got home I couldn't stop shaking. Since then whether I drive alone or with someone I get all lightheaded and panicky. I even avoid driving when I can.Has anyone been through this and overcome it or still suffering?I know I can try councelling etc but I want to try to do this myself. I have friends to talk to this about but it's hard for them to understand as they love driving .I honestly wish I never got my licence so I wouldn't have to drive.Please, please help.Thanks Reply to this Question
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female
reader, MonksDaBomb  +, writes (13 December 2010):
 Hi, I'm like you, where I don't like to drive, but I have to to go to work and make a living. I had what you'd call a traumatic experience when I was younger (you don't want to hear about it; i'd bore you to tears!), but needless to say i get these impossible-to-describe dizzy spells. They tend to come in waves: sometimes I'll get them every time I drive and there are some times where I don't get them for a while. But when i feel one coming, I just stay focused and roll down my windows (even if it's freezing cold outside, as the cold keeps me focused) or if it's at a time when I know I'll run into trouble (like when it's dark out and I'm tired after a long day at work), I'll stop halfway and grocery shop. The little break does wonders!
All I can say is good luck (I've been driving for about a year and a half now) and keep at it; you'll overcome your anxiety.
A
female
reader, eyeswideopen +, writes (13 December 2010):
 Practice will build your confidence. The more driving you do the easier and the more second nature it will become. Everyone is scared at first, at least if they'll admit to it. Soon your only problem will be remembering where you left the keys.
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A
male
reader, ivanichiaynus +, writes (13 December 2010):
 If you do as CG suggests and still can't come to terms with driving, you will be a danger to yourself and others on the road so it could be the end of your driving career.
Sorry.
Ivan.
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A
male
reader, CaringGuy +, writes (13 December 2010):
I don't mind driving for the most part, but I disliked having to stop on a hill whilst going up it. I had this nightmare about stalling or something. In the end, I went out and spent a few days specifically driving around by myself up and down hills. Problem solved.
It might take a bit longer for you, but the only real way to get through a phobia is to just face up to it. That means getting in the car and going out and driving. Even if it's just to the end of the street and back. Driving is quite important in this world we live in, and it's important that you can do it. I don't think seeing a counsellor yet will make a difference. I think you just have to be proactive and face your fear.
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