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I’m so sorry. That sounds humiliating. If you need help I have a new course where I teach driving exposures and I am available to answer questions in my support community called WarmHeart Hub. You can find these resources at paigepradko.com
@@eehee2428There are videos of first person views of driving on a freeway, in LA. If you sit close to the TV, it is like a simulator. You can google search "RUclips driving las vegas". This might help.
I called out of work this morning because I couldn't handle another day of driving home from work during rush hour. I usually have to pull of the road 5 to 10 times all the way home. Everything you've explained in this video is me. I'm suffering so much. I finally got a really good job and now the driving is in the way. I'm so happy I found this video this morning. Even though I'm still terrified, it has helped me realize I'm doing a lot better than I thought. Even though I have to pull off the road so many times, I'm still persevering and I got myself to work and back. I do wish I went to work now that I watched this video. I'm going to practice all the techniques you explained. I took notes and I really hope I can give you a good report soon. I can't tell you how thankful I am for finding you this morning because I was on the verge of giving this job back and that would have been heartbreaking because it has been the best opportunity I've ever recieved. Thank you!❤
Hi Ronnie. I hope that you have been able to drive since you wrote this. It takes time. If you are still in need of more help, I have a course that covers this in detail for people with agoraphobia. It will be available in a few weeks on paigepradko.com.
I'm 42 years old, and I've been driving since I was 16. Last year while driving a 5 hour trip to visit family, a trip I have made dozens of times since 2005, I had a panic attack about halfway through. It came out of nowhere and scared me so much. I thought I was having a seizure or something at first when it happened. Since then however, driving, especially out of town or on an open highway has become something I don't look forward to doing anymore. I've around 5 panic attacks while driving this year. The fear and adrenaline scares me so much when I get on the highway and begin to pick up speed. It's even gotten to the point where I don't even like driving around the town I live in. It's like I associate being in a car with danger now, something I never even used to think about. What I have noticed though is that anytime I've had a panic attack is when someone else is in the car with me. It's never happened while driving by myself, but I still stay worried that it will happen whether I'm driving alone or with others. I used to love driving, but that has all changed. I just don't know what has happened to me, but I'm going to take your advice here. Thank you for this detailed information.
I am sorry that happened to you. The only way through is to retrain your brain through practice. You will want to do exposures with and without someone in the car. Remember to not white knuckle it. If you happen to panic, it will not set you back, even though it feels uncomfortable. Keep practicing. 😊
@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thank you! I will be taking your advice and following your tips. I don't have anyone to drive me around, so stopping isn't a choice for me. Thank you again!
Recently I encountered an incident while on a steep hill. This was a route I was accustomed to. But somehow that day while waiting for the light to change, my feet slipped off my brakes, Causing me to quickly react. After placing my feet back on the brakes, it slipped again. Ever since that day, I've been shaken to the core, not driving and ultimately losing my job. My son has been such a constant In my life and now I'm exhausting g him. Please help.
I am learning driving now. And today I realized that when I comment what i see and what am I supposed do outloud, it helps me to focus and not forget what am I supposed to do next. For example, I see speed limit 40 miles and I say "speed limit 40" and Instantly I adjust my speed limit. Or I say "there is traffic light ahead and its red so I need to slow down and stop" etc. For me it instantly gave me confidence in my driving and lowered my anxiety. Hopefully, it will help someone too. And your tips sound super useful, I will use them. Thank you!
I'm 25 and I've never had my license due to anxiety. I've had my permit but I'm always terrified to drive. I avoided it but now, after talking to my husband, I realize I need to work on ot to be more independent and confident
It’s never to late to learn just redo your permit if you have to and drive down an empty open wide street just straight for 5 minutes at a time then keep adding time and distance. You’ll get this, believe me I understand, your not alone. Even though most people you know drive. There’s many in the world with this anxiety or fear. But you can overcome it. You must work hard and not give up!
I avoid highways, busy multilane intersections 😰, bridges, or anything unfamiliar at all costs. I’m so terrified. Even with anxiety medication. Exposure scares me so much. I’ve had moments with my kids in the car where my whole body started shaking and I had to pull over and call my husband out of work to come get me. I didn’t want to put them in danger.
My first driving instructor was awful, he used to yell at me and shame me for my mistakes. Now, even though I have passed my test, I am still so anxious about driving. I am scared other drivers will get angry with me for being slow, or making a mistake, and therefore still keep my P plates on my car! This video has helped me identify that this is just feeding into my anxiety. I will overcome this! Thank you for this video.
I’m so sorry you had such an insensitive driving instructor. I would find that challenging and upsetting as well. But now it’s your turn to move forward and not let that instructor have any further influence over you anymore. Picture yourself kicking that instructor to the road while you drive away with confidence! You will definitely overcome this!
Thanks a million, I will give the feedback because I am now going forward no more turning back. AWAY WITH FEAR .I'M GONNA DO THIS. Through God we can conquer and take away fear.
I get anxiety when driving in heavy traffic, and being in busy stores. The busier, the more anxiety. I “exposed” myself (due to work) to busy stores every day for 3 years until I had so many physical symptoms that I could not work anymore. Exposing actually made my anxiety worse. When I went to a counselor, she told me to practice “mindfulness” by paying attention to my other senses. It actually made my anxiety worse. Recently I started listening to tv shows while driving and it made my anxiety lessen.
It sounds like you were able to tolerate the anxiety for three years. But, I wonder if you were still resisting it versus just allowing yourself to let down your defenses. And yes, listening to something in the car is a distraction or an avoidance behavior. Avoidance and safety behaviors and distractions will always lower your anxiety in the moment, but reinforce your anxiety in the long run because it gives your brain the message that you cannot get through it without that distraction. But, it really comes down to what is best for you. And if driving is possible in high traffic by listening to something, then why not. ☺️
Exposure is only going to work if you accept and dont resist the sensations. White knuckling through life isn't exposure work. You have to build a wilful tolerance to uncomfortable sensations and practice that repeatedly and frequently to experience habituation overtime.
I’m 30. I really want to drive but I’m terrified of everything and especially these death machines. I have to trust everyone on the road and you never know what could happen. I hope I can overcome that soon 😢
As much as anything is possible in life, we do have to take a certain risk to most everything in life. It all depends on the life you want to live. If you would like to drive, I have a program that can help you. I will leave a link for you to learn more: www.paigepradko.com/agoraphobia
I'm 23, just got my license, and got me a nice Dodge Challenger RT. The only problem is that I've been terrified to drive it. Never drove a car like it, and I just get nervous. Thanks to you, I'm gonna start going out for 1 hour every Sunday then maybe start on Mondays. Traffic is still a really scary thought. Thanks again!
You have great taste in cars. I wonder if your nervousness is also mixed with excitement. It’s okay to feel nervous and excited. Just allow those feelings and practice tolerating them while you drive your beautiful car. I like your plan and would love to see you driving a bit at least 5 days a week.
I suffered the same. You need to acknowledge the loud inner voice that's cautioning you. Tell it that there is no danger and that the loud voice itself will cause the danger. Make a deal with the voice. Tell it you will demonstrate and prove there is no danger and ask it to stay quiet for that particular drive. Once you reach your destination, acknowledge the win. Allow yourself to enjoy the win. Be proud and happy. Have a followup chat with that inner voice afterwards.
everything is so much better once you take the first step and get behind the wheel for the first time, I still have mini panic attacks before I drive anywhere and almost had a full blown panic attack while driving today (I'm still in the learning stage) but it's so much better than it was. I seriously thought I had no hope and would never overcome my anxiety, thought I'd be relying on rides my whole life but realistically that's just not possible. I'm in my 20s for reference and I just recently got my learners permit.
I actually choked up listening to this. This is me, down to a tee, since I had a really bad accident in 2019 (I was fine and no one else was involved). As soon as you mentioned some people need to have water with them, I lost it. It's comforting to know that other people are dealing with this too and that my coping mechanisms aren't unusual. I'm great with driving a few blocks away, but actively work against driving far to meet with family because I don't like the feeling of being stuck. Living in the countryside, I also have a fear of something happening (medical emergency, car accident, etc.) and help not arriving in time, just like my accident back when. I'm moving 4 hours away in a month, by myself, and have to get this under control so I'm not hyperventilating the entire drive while also driving a giant truck. This video has been very helpful so far!
Everything you said was exactly how I feel, I’ve always felt like there was something wrong with me for being so afraid to drive but now I know that it’s a real thing and I’m going to start to put these things Into practice to be able to drive comfortably like I could before I had a panic attack while driving, this video was very helpful!
I've had driving anxiety since I first got my license at age 16 (I'm 63 now), the year my panic attacks started. I've had periods of time when I've been better; like being able to drive around town pretty easily when my youngest daughter was growing up, but I have never been able to drive any distances over about 20 minutes in the car. Since the start of 2020 I have not driven at all since we have been isolated due to being high risk for viral infections. My driver's license expired 2 months ago and I really have to get it renewed but I am scared to death of trying to drive after 3 years of not doing so. I also really have nowhere to go for the most part as the only thing my husband and I do is pick up groceries. We have still not gotten out of isolation but are hoping to this summer. I know this going to be a major challenge for me. I appreciate the video. I am just still so unsure of even getting back out there at all.
Thank you for sharing. It is so difficult to break through periods when we haven’t driven in awhile. You are not alone. Perhaps getting the license renewed is the first step that may motivate you to begin again. ❤️
You are not alone. I hear that from a lot of people. There is a fear of not being able to escape happening. Remind yourself that you are in control and keep training your brain that you can handle it no matter what. 😊
I've been dealing with this for 4 years now, and the more exposure I do, the less I'm able to drive on my own. It's almost like having constant panic attacks just reinforces the idea that driving is dangerous. What's worse - I used to love driving 😭
Holy shit. I feel like this video is literally speaking my life for the past decade 😔. Thanks for the guidance! Looking forward to overcoming this phobia
I hope it helps you. I have a program that will provide much more help for driving anxiety and agoraphobia becoming available in January. If you are interested in learning more, you may sign up here to be notified: www.paigepradko.com/agoraphobia.
Dear Paige, I am turning 54 in August. I have been driving since I was 22 and this was never an issue till about 12 years ago. Besides stuff which happened in my childhood I think the main reason for my highway driving anxiety is being on a high stress level for years due to a general anxiety disorder and a stressfull job. I just want to say that I am going to use your method and wanted to thank you that the video that you made has all the explanation in the video itself instead of what most video's have: A little explanation and then: You can buy my book or whatever. Greatings from The Netherlands
Thank you so much for this! I’m terrified just thinking about exposure therapy, but I know I must do it to get better. I had a panic attack while driving on the highway 5 years ago and since then driving has been a challenge for me. I currently only drive within a few minutes if my home.. I have my whole journey timed… my son’s school is 4 minutes away, grocery store is 5 minutes away.. these are literally the only 2 places I go regularly. I just moved to a new city and desperately want to explore our new home with my child ..its like a prison 😢
That’s challenging. But you’re right. You have to keep at it to get better. Allow the anxiety to wash over you, relax your hands on the wheel and keep driving.
Listened to you as I drove the neighborhood today. I took your advice and added spontaneity to my normal drive path and exited the neighborhood to reenter through a different street to return home and OMG did I think I was going pass out. 😅 despite the physical symptoms of panic, I made it home! 🎉
Thank you I needed this so badly. Its hard to explain to anyone thats not been through it. I went from tears on ny way home from work to hope. Thanks again ❤
@@PaigePradkoTherapymy biggest issue is am avoiding driving … once am in the car I am ok .. by this Dec 31 I want to drive daily, is it an achievable goal?
this video has just been such a breathe of fresh air. when i describe this fear to people i feel like they think i'm crazy because they just can't understand why i would be so afraid. hearing someone describe this very specific kind of anxiety that i experience every time i get behind the wheel for the first time just makes me feel extremely seen. thank you.
I am glad you feel scene and understood. You are not alone. I have more help coming for driving and agoraphobia. If you are interested in learning more about these resources, please sign up for my newsletter at paigepradko.com. 😊
I am so happy I found your video. I am currently unemployed and mostly due to the fear of driving. I always loved driving and looked forward to driving. However had few negative experiences when on a long open road. Feeling like I was going to fast and breaking to hard. Or panic attacks forgetting how to drive or what to do. Avoiding roads to the point I don't drive anymore. I always feel so disappointed in myself. And often get criticized because of it. Which reinforces the feelings. I really want my confidence back. And hope to use these tips today.
Thank you for sharing your comment because you will help so many people that will relate to your story. Driving anxiety is usually related to the fear of having a panic attack while driving. It often takes committed work and treatment in two areas: treatment for panic disorder and treatment for driving under many circumstances and conditions. I will have a course and support group available soon for driving and people with agoraphobia. I already have a course to help you with recovering from panic disorder. You can find out more information at paigepradko,com.
Hello! Thank you very much! I have driving anxiety with agoraphobia and panic disorder. I don't have a car, however, it's hard for me to ride my bike and my tricycle. It's even hard for me to walk. I know I have to do exposures, but most of the time, I need to feel motivated. And I need a plan. Because I don't know how to start. I only stay in front of my building (on the parking lot). I never go farther. I wish I could go farther, but the problem is that I don't feel motivated to do so. I don't feel courageous enough. And I am a slow person. I miss the life I used to have. Years ago, riding my bike helped me overcome agoraphobia. But now it's different. It's harder. Thank you very much for this video!
Hi Nicolas. You are not alone. Agoraphobia is a very challenging condition. I love that you have used a bike to help you recover before. And you are right, motivation and “wanting” to recover is essential to any process of change. Perhaps this summer you will want to ride your bike again.
Thank you❤🙏 I have been going through driving anxiety for 4 years after my panic attacks 4 years back. But now I feel confident now with these methods. Thankyou
Hello Paige, I just want to say thank you so much for putting in the time and effort to create this content. It’s absolutely invaluable to me, and I can tell from the comments, many others. Have a lovely day. 💜
It’s never to late to learn to drive. Get your learner permit and have a friend or family member as a passenger drive with you. Start by going down an empty open wide street just straight for 5 minutes at a time then keep adding time and distance as you get more comfortable. You’ll get this, believe me I understand, your not alone. Even though most people you know drive. There’s many in the world with this anxiety or fear. But you can overcome it. You must work hard and not give up!
Fantastic video. Thankyou. I get embarrassed myself I'm 30 years old. Yet I've always kept myself in a little radius whether it be work relationships it all has to be close to home because of driving anxietys. And it isn't healthy. Thank you for the video
Thank you so much for this information on how to overcome driving anxiety. I’ve been dealing with driving anxiety for 7 years and its debilitating. I used to always drive on highway and by myself no problem. But ever since i got into a car accident in 2017 i always been scared and anxious to drive and i’m still dealing with this problem
Paige thank you so much for this video! I've struggled for a few years w driving anxiety. This structure for each driving session has helped immensely. I have been consistent w. My training and I'm seeing progress and more confidence each time. THANKS again!
Thank you for going in depth on how to go about exposure therapy. I went through countless therapists, I wasn't working at their pace, which just overwhelmed me that much more than I already was to begin with, one of them even resorted to telling me that I was wasting their time which brought me down even more and pushed me even farther away from trying to seek out help. I've had Agoraphobia along with Driving Anxiety for at least a decade (I lost track of the exact amount of years) it's crippling not being able to leave the house. It's December at the time I'm writing this, and I only left my house once this entire year. It's difficult to just even be outside on my own property in general. To make matters even worse, I now have a daughter that turns 2 at the end of the month, so on top of my Agoraphobia and Driving Anxiety, I now feel like a failure as a parent because I have these issues. I'm pretty deep in the gutter here at the moment of writing this, but I still wanted to say thank you for going more in depth about how to go about exposure compared to other therapists basically telling me " you need to work on exposure but you also have to figure out for yourself how to do it" So thank you for giving detailed and in depth pointers on how to tackle exposure. I'm terrified (but then again, who wouldn't be) but I want my life back, I want to enjoy life, I want to actually experience life, and I want to be the parent that I want to be for my daughter preferably before she gets to the age where she starts questioning why I can't go out and do anything with her. I'll rewatch this video as many times as I need to as a constant reminder, I'm sorry for saying this so much, but thank you for making this video.
@@Just_Josh_Gaming , I’m so sorry you had that experience with other therapists. I specialize in treating people with agoraphobia and have more help at paigepradko.com.
I really enjoyed this video. It clicked for me that bringing things that make me feel “safe” are tricking my brain to think there’s still danger there. Ever since a car hit me while driving with my children 8 months ago driving alone with them has been beyond difficult. I will get back to normal. It’s all about building that confidence on the road again. Thank you!
Wow, it feels like you literally just spoke directly to me. I’m trying to get through all this and I am going more the aggressive approach as I also know what that reward to thy brain and self feels like, however exhausted. I need to find a therapist available like you! You have a gift, thank you!
I just wanted to say thank you so much for this video. You have most certainly helped me get through traffic and ease the tension while getting to my destination. It is odd as a truck driver who has driven through many major cities in the US for the past five years And up until recently has it started to noticing affect me. Looking back in my first couple years I would get bruises on the right side of my shin from pressing up against the bottom of the center console, and this was without noticing. Driving a big truck and hauling heavy equipment I’ve dealt with a lot of reckless and careless people, and have always and heavy traffic almost preparing for impact. As you said, the best thing you could do is just realize that the traffic, the congestion, the madness, although it feels like forever, it will eventually clear. Thank you for your suggestions and calm approach to your solutions.
I am amazed you mentioned all I do in this one video, the water, the meds (not taking them but having there for "just in case", the bridge avoidance, the racing thoughts, I have put in to practice your exposure method and it has helped me tremendously. I cannot thank you enough.
Concise and helpful content. It's one of the most helpful videos I've seen. Immediately put the information to use, and I'm able to frame things better. Feeling optimistic :)
Here after the first 3 minutes of the video: it also doesn’t help when all I see is how easy people get pulled over. I feel like the moment I do anything (accidentally drive too fast or too slow or forget to turn off my signal or break too much) that I’ll get pulled over and get arrested 12:39 I was thinking about not driving with my parents because they are a major part of my anxiety. When they panic, I start panicking and getting confused. I’ll try driving with them again and push through their backseating
I had an accident a few hours after getting my license, it was my first time ever driving alone. I went off the road and overcorrected, and then overcorrected again. I hit a tree and flipped my aunts car. Its so hard driving and its really scary. I never drive anywhere outside my small neighborhood.
That was so unfortunate. I am so sorry that happened to you. When I first got my license, I was also in an accident that I caused. We were both new drivers and it happens. I didn’t flip my car, but I did hit another car. It was very upsetting and I understand why it scared you. Sometimes we have scary experiences and we have to get right back out there and keep driving. I am glad you are driving, but I hope that you continue to build courage to drive beyond your town.
Having these feelings while driving can be debilitating. I'm fine on the back roads and main streets, but on the highway, just thinking about having to go on the highway makes the anxiety kick in. I hate feeling this way.
I am 27 years old in this year. Although i hoped to drive, and i tried to get a driver's license and can be able to drive for 2 years, i always failed in driving exam and just was not thinking of this. But when listening to this youtube, i decided again to go to a driving academy again by saving some of the money i earn to drive, as early as i can from now. Just waiting for a bus or a subway is really a bored thing.
Paige I can’t thank you ENOUGH for this video. I’m so glad I found you. I’ve been dealing with some pretty extreme long distance driving anxiety. It kind of just snuck up on me and happened out of nowhere. I used to never be this way. It’s something that has made going home to Utah to see my family extremely hard. I’m just terrified to drive long distance alone. It’s only a 7 hour drive and it’s something I’ve done multiple times. Thank you so much for your kind words. I know with your suggestions and resources I can do this! 💗
I can go certain places but if it’s big cities I can only stay on outskirts, I have trouble driving over bridges above water. For some reason I feel much calmer driving at night or when it rains.
My driving anxiety is when I am at a red traffic light and waiting for the light to turn green. It is worse when I am waiting to turn left when the light is red.
Yes. It is common for people to have anxiety when stopping at a red light, or when feeling trapped in traffic. Keep working on those situations that cause anxiety. 😊
@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thank you. I'm improving. It was so worse before but now I can manage, just need to work on it more. Facing it is the key is what you said. It really works for me
I was perfectly fine til I had a panic attack in December. Started staying home for a few months now it’s been a struggle getting out the house. I can’t drive anywhere alone. Can’t sit at a stop light, catch a train, be stuck in traffic…this is a nightmare 🥹
That sounds horrible. I am so sorry that happened. I want to encourage to begin treating the panic disorder and agoraphobia. If you need help, here are some resources: PDF: What to do when Panic Strikes: FACE Fear paigepradko.com/facefear Panic Attacks Quiz www.paigepradko.com/panic-quiz Your Panic Attacks Are NOT the Boss OnLine Course www.paigepradko.com/panic
So thankful to have come across this video. I've had trouble driving for 2 years. How can I identify if my driving problem is from Anxiety or something else (vertigo, BVD, etc)? I have seen multiple providers without any answers.
Watched this video a few months ago before I started my journey on learning how to drive, how I’m coming back to it with my license, about to drive by myself for the first time, the nerves are still there, but I battle them with the knowledge that I am capable!
I didn’t have this until a couple years ago. I never liked bridges but now I can’t even drive on the freeway. I didn’t have a panic attack, it’s from people driving way more crazy and aggressive in the past few years. I’ve also read it can happen with perimenopause.
I used to be scared/anxious of driving because of my driving instructor who was very mean and angry. Didnt drive until I was in my twenties, until I could borrow my girlfriends car on occasion and go for a drive in a known area I wasnt necessarily having thought or fears about accidents or whatnot, although maybe a little, more about getting judged if I made a mistake etc. The secret is to just drive in your own speed/tempo and not to worry about what others are think, because to be truthful, they're probably not thinking much.
Yes, learning to drive can be an anxiety provoking experience if the instructor is not a calm person. Glad that you found a way to move past that fear. Thanks for sharing. 😊
Remember that you're never alone. All of us are facing this together and just recently, I went on a drive to be with my partner and sister. And I'm so happy to be able to have the confidence to try driving on my own today.
I am learning to drive and i have had 4 lessons so far. My last lesson i drove 15 miles there and 15 miles back. when i got on the dual carriageway where the speed is 70mph i had a panic attack. This was really scary. I have no problem with my driving apart from common new learner mistakes. I have no idea why i had panic attack because i know there was no danger.
We can panic sometimes while driving. You want to make sure that you keep driving. Do not pause and try to get back out there driving as soon as possible. If it happens again, drive through the symptoms and it is good to know that nothing about a panic attack can harm you. You will still be able to operate the vehicle just fine.
I was in a car accident last year and driving on the interstate gives me so much anxiety. I can’t stop feeling like I’m sliding all over the road and even when I’m not sliding.
It's not a disease. You simply need more practice in controlling your thoughts. Just like gym exercises, your brain will respond and grow with more practice. More reps and more sets. There will be ups and downs as you progress but the graph will trend upwards overall.
I’m so glad I’m not alone. Last year I had no choice but to leave because we were being evacuated and had to travel 8 hours away from home because of the Canadian wildfires. Those 8 hours were the longest 8 hours in my life.
I got my driver's license nearly a year ago, I had really bad anxiety before because of my experiences while learning I was made to feel like every mistake I was making was horrible and now I feel like everything im doing is wrong even though I know it's not. I was driving to work and back and ventured farther out (I have a 30 year old car and it has been sitting for a while which added to my fear) I started to become more confident until one day I got off of work and this anxiety I hadn't felt in a while hit me, it was strange because it was so sudden and I couldn't pinpoint why. When I was making a right turn I went into the farthest left lane which was my mistake because I thought I had time and I got into a minor accident. It wasnt bad and the other driver was nice but it felt like all my thoughts about how I was a bad driver and I didn't know what I was doing and I didn't trust my car etc, were coming back, especially since it wss outside of work and infront of an autoshop of people I knew I felt even more embarrassed. I've driven 3 or 4 times since then but each time I have this extreme anxiety. It's been months and it wasn't that bad but I still have this feeling of fear, now that I have a newer car that ill damage that one and that my mom will be mad. (I'm 19) I'm not sure how to go about it especially living in a bad neighborhood with high traffic and frequent accidents
I’m sorry that happened to you. It is difficult to build confidence when you are a new driver, especially after having a little accident. I can relate because I also had an accident shortly after I began driving. You are human and it takes time to build that confidence and it is more difficult to be in a neighborhood where you don’t feel safe and there is high traffic. Treat yourself with compassion and yet allow yourself the driving opportunities to build your confidence. You will one day be a really great driver because of that experience of living in a high traffic area.
Wow. This describes me to a t. I had a panic attack on the expressway and haven't been the same driver since. I used ti be confident and self assured now I feel incredibly anxious while driving and fear that I'll lose control.
I suffered the same. You need to acknowledge the loud inner voice that's cautioning you. Tell it that there is no danger and that the loud voice itself will cause the danger. Make a deal with the voice. Tell it you will demonstrate and prove there is no danger and ask it to stay quiet for that particular drive. Once you reach your destination, acknowledge the win. Allow yourself to enjoy the win. Be proud and happy. Have a followup chat with that inner voice afterwards.
Im driving since I was 19 years. In the last 10 years if I go on the highway, I panic and I end up half in the lay-by, on a low speed. This results I driver's flashing and beeping at me. In this result I get of highway and go the side roads. 😢 Plus I'm worse if someone is driving with me.
Hi! How would you overcome the fear of "being stuck" in traffic? I can drive, no problem at all, but I panic when stuck at red light, or just in car traffic. This does not happen when in bike
Hi. Yes, this is a common phobia that is caused by the fear of being trapped and being unable to escape easily. To over come the fear, you will need to practice exposures in those situations. The exposures will be things like driving in heavy traffic, driving in the middle lane, driving in construction zones, stopping at lots of red lights, especially in lanes where you cannot turn very easily. You are not looking to have no anxiety as a result, you are just looking to tolerate the symptoms and not avoid them. Make sure you are not using safety behaviors like listening to music or other distractions.
Thank you! I have a licence and I've recently bought a car. Yet not ready to go for trips alone because of fear of getting lost or ending up on big roundabouts or high speed roads. I drove a few times with my partner in the car, because I thought I will be more comfortable. However, sometimes he tends to lose his patience and shouts at me when I make mistakes and my driving only gets worse after that. I understand that I should come out of my comfort zone and practice alone. I really must do something about this.
@@SnarkticonDM Sorry you are going through that. That is a symptom of hyperventilation. Exhale slowly (to the count of 8) to reverse hyperventilation. Your body will also regulate hyperventilation on it’s own…. you don’t need to take in more air or breath deeper or anything like that.
I passed my test in my mid 40s here in England, after on off lessons with 10 year gaps due to cost life etc!! But my dads cars gears were breaking… and hand break…… throw in lots of roundabouts ,narrow roads and people going 50 mph on your back down bendy tiny roads is terrifying! Had to drive to work and my daughter etc…dad in hospital….I had to do it even though terrified….nearly broke down on motorway etc! Pulled off had to be towed home as clutch going etc that was scary!!!….Now second hand new car have to get use to ,6 gears quickly, have stalled in middle of road as so diff to dads car ,gears ,breaks really sensitive,biting point etc …but driving round local area at night. Just get use to car, getting there! Just annoyed to be so stressed when want to enjoy it.
How would you suggest to cope with anxiety of people tailgating (other drivers driving their vehicle very near to the rear of my vehicle) when I'm driving at the posted speed limit? I always feel I need to increase the distance between vehicles (somehow), but at the same time I feel freeze panic and get 'tunnel vision' and lose some situational awareness with tailgaters driving closely. This happens even sometimes even when I'm in the slow lane with muti lanes open that the other drivers can choose if they want to go faster, but they choose to tailgate my vehicle for many minutes, very closely.
I am sorry that happens. Some drivers try to intimidate other drivers. Perhaps have a little conversation with yourself that you have a right to be driving on that road too. If you are in the left lane, then move to the right lane. If you are in the right lane, stay where you are and they will eventually pass you if they want to go faster. You are not doing anything wrong. People are just impatient at times. Relax, exhale, loosen your grip and just allow them to pass.
How do I do exposures in the car with my kids? I just feel like I’m going to scare them if I start to panic or talking to myself about being nervous. I can do the exposures fine alone
What you may experience is that your desire to appear confident in front of your kids actually helps you to move through your exposures. Release the tension in your shoulders and hands as you’re driving. Panic and anxiety are the result of an adrenaline surge and this reaction does not put you in any danger.
I have anxiety driving on hwy or long bridges. Pretty much avoid it. However, I ride a motorcycle and can do anything freely. My head is totally clear.
I had one panic attack while driving once about a month ago and now it keeps on happening. I worry that I’m going to pass out and it’ll make me crash so I tell myself I have to pull over but then I feel like doing that makes it worse because I’m telling myself that I’m not safe. :(
That must have been very scary to experience. You will want to drive as often as possible, practice most every day. If you avoid driving this fear can spread. If you keep working at this, it will eventually resolve on its own. It is a good thing that you caught this and are working on correcting it. You cannot pass out even if you feel dizzy from high anxiety or panic. Just keep on driving.
I had an accident at age 16 and have never drove since. I'm 20 now and I don't have my license. I am trying to learn again but I am just so scared. I have done exposure therapy for social anxiety in the past. My therapist is helping me with driving anxiety as well
I am so glad you are working on this with your therapist. Good job! Keep going. Driving anxiety takes time…stay consistent with your practice regardless of whether or not anxiety symptoms show up.
I can’t really explain how or why but all of the sudden I started getting nervous driving home from work at night. The bright lights and the cars passing me at high speeds begin to give me anxiety. Then I start thinking about the speed I’m doing, how the road is passing me so fast. I start to grip the wheel so hard that my hands get sore. I go to the far right lane to slow down and begin to breath heavily to try and calm myself. My head begins to feel lighter and it feels like I will lose control. I push through the drive and get home. Once I get off the freeway I feel so much relief. Sometimes this feeling happens the drive to my work now which is in the daytime and usually didn’t occur. It feels like my speed and thinking about how fast I’m going is what triggers it but I’m not certain if that is the only thing as the lights bother me too at night. Feels like I’m rambling now but man, it’s nice to read the comments and see that others are also feeling this way. As a man I feel so weird this came out of no where, weak even.
I know it is tough to go through this. Read back your comments and you can understand why your brain and body become anxious when you have those thoughts. You are unintentionally training your brain to be afraid. Keep driving in all conditions, but try to relax your hands on the wheel and try to not be concerned about whether or not you experience anxiety symptoms. If you begin to worry about how you are feeling, the fear will endure.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy thank you. I tried to remember some of the things you mention in the video today. I’m going to get over this! I appreciate your comment and support.
A lot of this advice hinges on someone WANTING to drive and overcome those anxieties. I don't want to drive. I don't want to drive on freeways or highways or in heavy traffic.
@PaigePradkoTherapy so what do I do when I have to do these things but have no desire to? My mom is making me get my license and a car, but every time I think about practicing driving (I already learned how, I just have very little practice), it fills me with dread. I don't want to drive. I want to live in a world that doesn't depend on cars.
@ , in my opinion, it will be difficult to overcome if you have no desire or want to drive. You would have to find a reason to want to drive to progress.
I am happy, but also so sad this needed to be made! I have had a problem with driving (particularly bridges and overpasses) since my son was born six years ago. I drove about 180 miles round trip a couple months back thinking the "exposure" would help but it made it worse, likely because of all the "safety behaviors" and distractions I implemented (including hauling my poor MIL along to talk me off the ledge.)
Sorry to hear that. Driving exposures take consistent practice and letting go of those avoidances and safety behaviors. But, if you can do a 180 mile drive, you can keep going and make progress. 😊
My issue is that I'm bad at driving, and I feel overwhelmed by the stimulus and unable to focus. I can't focus on going at the right speed, looking for pedestrians, looking at signs etc. I remember panicking at a stop sign and flooring it and almost getting in an accident when I was 19. I have never owned my own car and have refused to drive since. It sucks though, because not being able to drive in America basically makes you a second class citizen unless you live in a big metro area.
My problem is irritability in traffic. About a year ago I stopped drinking & smoking weed & ever since I started to get these panic attacks out of nowhere. Keep in mind I drank & smoked for years. When I stopped both of those cold turkey, about 3-4 months after is when I had my first panic attack at work. I seriously felt like I was going to die. I managed to get through it by clinching my teeth together & squeezing my hands together. It has gotten better but now I am having problems driving my family around. I get annoyed easily & anxious, then I starts to trigger my anxiety. I feel useless as a man. I try to hide it from my wife & kids. My problem is that by the time I get home I am very exhausted from fighting the whole drive. I’m at a point where I can’t take it anymore. I can’t even ride my motorcycle anymore. I tried it & almost dropped my bike at a stop light in traffic. I barely was able to control it. It only triggers while I’m at a stop light or bad traffic. I guess weed & drinking helped me mellow out & chill. I’m at a point where I am about to start drinking again just to feel normal
I just can't recongaise myself! I just can't understand this insanity I feel! I'm not myself anymore! Driving was the only thing Ibhave in my life...now this is also taken! WTF
I deal with this bad,I drive a tractor trailer for a living and I get very nervous while I'm driving a truck!! Im perfectly fine when I drive my personal car or motorcycle..i only get nervous while on the interstate..i just don't understand it!!
@@PaigePradkoTherapy I think alot of it has to do with sitting in a truck all day,plus I go back and forth to the same location! It gets old seeing the same road every day lol
I always thought it was caffeine that gave me a heightened feeling of anxiety to I avoided it knowing I had to drive a long distance. But now even though I don’t drink caffeine, it started happening again when I drive on interstate.
Wow all the signs you’ve mentioned about when driving is what I’ve been going through for quite a while now and I’m sick of it to the point where I drive when i want to now, even tho I’m still very aware of how I feel physically like vertigo off balance, feeling as if I need food with me etc. it really is strange as I’m someone that loves driving but with this going on it feels dangerous most of the time. Also it seems to be not as bad when I’m actually driving moving than being stopped in traffic. There’s been numerous times where I’ve got into my car set off somewhere and then changed my mind and come back home just because i didn’t feel right mentally. Lastly I’ll say this there is no rush to leave the house or drive on a motorway but if you can your onto recovery faster and you are also a stronger person than you think.
i have severe driving fear and emetaphobia (fear of vomiting) and its so hard to get the motivation to even get in the car.Everytime i get in the car i feel really sick and it starts to get hard to breathe.I never used to be like this and i really enjoyed driving but now i feel so trapped.
Having a trouble trying to get back into it it freaks me out ...I think my why is is losing control...I want freedom mine started when I was little I had a dream about being in the car with my mom and got thrown out of the car and crawl the other side of the road and saw a car with lights shining comes towards me
I been working my way up to this.. I have adhd so my mind wonders plus a little obsessive So sometimes when I was driving my mind would get lost or freaked out.. it’s also been a very stressfulll time with work changing jobs so I think this triggered anxiety but u been pushing myself and talking to myself while driving on highway.. I got a job that required the highway an at first I had little panics an would exit too soon Now I can drive further an I will drive further up for the next job
I have had a terrible time driving for years. Now, I don't drive and have to rely on rides. Sitting at stop lights, stop signs and waiting for a left hand turn are all extremely difficult. I feel like I need to escape. It's really hard. I also have trouble in crowds, especially if I am somewhere I can't get out easily, such as up in bleachers. Is this related?
Hi Jennifer. What you are describing is possibly agoraphobia. It is a fear of being unable to escape. It is challenging but treatable by consistently facing your fears.
I had agoraphobic pretty bad in the past and my girlfriend at the time help me get through it I will always appreciate her for doing that but I don't see her no more but I think my driving anxiety started happening when I saw some pretty bad accidents in front of me where there was a dead body in the middle of the road that was completely smashed and I drove past it and I saw it all and the other time was when my brother was driving his old van the drive shaft broke and hit the gas tank and I was literally in gold and flames inside the van and once I got out of the van it went into flames and after the incidents has been really bad for me to drive
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To anyone that is watching this WE WILL get better and heal from anxiety❤
Yes, you will. Thank you for such an inspirational message.
❤❤❤
Yess we will😊💗💗
Amen yes we will.
needed this today :)
I hate the fact my wife calls me her passenger princess, it hurts lol. I need to change this ASAP. Im going to follow these steps!
I’m so sorry. That sounds humiliating. If you need help I have a new course where I teach driving exposures and I am available to answer questions in my support community called WarmHeart Hub. You can find these resources at paigepradko.com
its ok to be a princess
My partner makes me feel more pathetic than I already did..
Worst part about driving anxiety,is that people think it's a choice 😢
@@sellbydateYep.
Same here man I want to do better for my family but I feel powerless
Agoraphobia plus traffic/ driving phobia combined is so difficult and crippling.
AGREED I wish there was a free driving school where you started virtual driving in a video game, then on course drives, then on the road.
@@eehee2428There are videos of first person views of driving on a freeway, in LA. If you sit close to the TV, it is like a simulator. You can google search "RUclips driving las vegas". This might help.
I called out of work this morning because I couldn't handle another day of driving home from work during rush hour. I usually have to pull of the road 5 to 10 times all the way home. Everything you've explained in this video is me. I'm suffering so much. I finally got a really good job and now the driving is in the way. I'm so happy I found this video this morning. Even though I'm still terrified, it has helped me realize I'm doing a lot better than I thought. Even though I have to pull off the road so many times, I'm still persevering and I got myself to work and back. I do wish I went to work now that I watched this video. I'm going to practice all the techniques you explained. I took notes and I really hope I can give you a good report soon. I can't tell you how thankful I am for finding you this morning because I was on the verge of giving this job back and that would have been heartbreaking because it has been the best opportunity I've ever recieved. Thank you!❤
Hi Ronnie. I hope that you have been able to drive since you wrote this. It takes time. If you are still in need of more help, I have a course that covers this in detail for people with agoraphobia. It will be available in a few weeks on paigepradko.com.
How are u doin
You got this. One moment at a time, breath, pray. One day at a time. You can do all things thru Christ who gives you strength. 🙏🏼
I'm 42 years old, and I've been driving since I was 16. Last year while driving a 5 hour trip to visit family, a trip I have made dozens of times since 2005, I had a panic attack about halfway through. It came out of nowhere and scared me so much. I thought I was having a seizure or something at first when it happened. Since then however, driving, especially out of town or on an open highway has become something I don't look forward to doing anymore. I've around 5 panic attacks while driving this year. The fear and adrenaline scares me so much when I get on the highway and begin to pick up speed. It's even gotten to the point where I don't even like driving around the town I live in. It's like I associate being in a car with danger now, something I never even used to think about. What I have noticed though is that anytime I've had a panic attack is when someone else is in the car with me. It's never happened while driving by myself, but I still stay worried that it will happen whether I'm driving alone or with others. I used to love driving, but that has all changed. I just don't know what has happened to me, but I'm going to take your advice here. Thank you for this detailed information.
I am sorry that happened to you. The only way through is to retrain your brain through practice. You will want to do exposures with and without someone in the car. Remember to not white knuckle it. If you happen to panic, it will not set you back, even though it feels uncomfortable. Keep practicing. 😊
@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thank you! I will be taking your advice and following your tips. I don't have anyone to drive me around, so stopping isn't a choice for me. Thank you again!
Recently I encountered an incident while on a steep hill. This was a route I was accustomed to. But somehow that day while waiting for the light to change, my feet slipped off my brakes, Causing me to quickly react. After placing my feet back on the brakes, it slipped again. Ever since that day, I've been shaken to the core, not driving and ultimately losing my job. My son has been such a constant In my life and now I'm exhausting g him. Please help.
I got the same issue
@@alihussain9556 I'm sorry to hear you are dealing with this also. I wouldn't wish this on anyone.
I am learning driving now. And today I realized that when I comment what i see and what am I supposed do outloud, it helps me to focus and not forget what am I supposed to do next. For example, I see speed limit 40 miles and I say "speed limit 40" and Instantly I adjust my speed limit. Or I say "there is traffic light ahead and its red so I need to slow down and stop" etc. For me it instantly gave me confidence in my driving and lowered my anxiety. Hopefully, it will help someone too. And your tips sound super useful, I will use them. Thank you!
Great ideas. Thank you for sharing ❤️
I'm 25 and I've never had my license due to anxiety. I've had my permit but I'm always terrified to drive. I avoided it but now, after talking to my husband, I realize I need to work on ot to be more independent and confident
You can do it! You got this!!
I feel the same ,l got my permit but l get so nervous driving in highway
I'm 28 and am still working on it! We're going to get better. We can do hard things even when we feel terrified. 💪
I'm 24 and have had my permit for 6 years I understand what your going through stay strong we can do this!!!
It’s never to late to learn just redo your permit if you have to and drive down an empty open wide street just straight for 5 minutes at a time then keep adding time and distance. You’ll get this, believe me I understand, your not alone. Even though most people you know drive. There’s many in the world with this anxiety or fear. But you can overcome it. You must work hard and not give up!
I avoid highways, busy multilane intersections 😰, bridges, or anything unfamiliar at all costs. I’m so terrified. Even with anxiety medication. Exposure scares me so much. I’ve had moments with my kids in the car where my whole body started shaking and I had to pull over and call my husband out of work to come get me. I didn’t want to put them in danger.
It’s your amygdala
I am kind of in the same boat and I honestly thought I am alone 😢😢😢, and I have no idea how I can come out of it too.
I get this way too with driving and going to the doctors. 🥲
This is me as well. Are you doing better now?
My first driving instructor was awful, he used to yell at me and shame me for my mistakes. Now, even though I have passed my test, I am still so anxious about driving. I am scared other drivers will get angry with me for being slow, or making a mistake, and therefore still keep my P plates on my car! This video has helped me identify that this is just feeding into my anxiety. I will overcome this! Thank you for this video.
I’m so sorry you had such an insensitive driving instructor. I would find that challenging and upsetting as well. But now it’s your turn to move forward and not let that instructor have any further influence over you anymore. Picture yourself kicking that instructor to the road while you drive away with confidence! You will definitely overcome this!
Thanks a million, I will give the feedback because I am now going forward no more turning back. AWAY WITH FEAR .I'M GONNA DO THIS. Through God we can conquer and take away fear.
I get anxiety when driving in heavy traffic, and being in busy stores. The busier, the more anxiety. I “exposed” myself (due to work) to busy stores every day for 3 years until I had so many physical symptoms that I could not work anymore. Exposing actually made my anxiety worse. When I went to a counselor, she told me to practice “mindfulness” by paying attention to my other senses. It actually made my anxiety worse. Recently I started listening to tv shows while driving and it made my anxiety lessen.
It sounds like you were able to tolerate the anxiety for three years. But, I wonder if you were still resisting it versus just allowing yourself to let down your defenses. And yes, listening to something in the car is a distraction or an avoidance behavior. Avoidance and safety behaviors and distractions will always lower your anxiety in the moment, but reinforce your anxiety in the long run because it gives your brain the message that you cannot get through it without that distraction. But, it really comes down to what is best for you. And if driving is possible in high traffic by listening to something, then why not. ☺️
Exposure is only going to work if you accept and dont resist the sensations. White knuckling through life isn't exposure work. You have to build a wilful tolerance to uncomfortable sensations and practice that repeatedly and frequently to experience habituation overtime.
Same I put tv shows I love even old school shows and it works for me. Windows rolled up no sounds from outside world and it kept me calm.
I’m 30. I really want to drive but I’m terrified of everything and especially these death machines. I have to trust everyone on the road and you never know what could happen. I hope I can overcome that soon 😢
As much as anything is possible in life, we do have to take a certain risk to most everything in life. It all depends on the life you want to live. If you would like to drive, I have a program that can help you. I will leave a link for you to learn more:
www.paigepradko.com/agoraphobia
I had same... little by little...only day out alone is a cure to this...
Take a short road non busy... small small get to busy road...take your time... Remember Don't drive when tired...
To All Champion drivers...🎉🎉🎉🎉
I'm 23, just got my license, and got me a nice Dodge Challenger RT. The only problem is that I've been terrified to drive it. Never drove a car like it, and I just get nervous. Thanks to you, I'm gonna start going out for 1 hour every Sunday then maybe start on Mondays. Traffic is still a really scary thought. Thanks again!
You have great taste in cars. I wonder if your nervousness is also mixed with excitement. It’s okay to feel nervous and excited. Just allow those feelings and practice tolerating them while you drive your beautiful car. I like your plan and would love to see you driving a bit at least 5 days a week.
I suffered the same.
You need to acknowledge the loud inner voice that's cautioning you. Tell it that there is no danger and that the loud voice itself will cause the danger. Make a deal with the voice. Tell it you will demonstrate and prove there is no danger and ask it to stay quiet for that particular drive.
Once you reach your destination, acknowledge the win. Allow yourself to enjoy the win. Be proud and happy. Have a followup chat with that inner voice afterwards.
everything is so much better once you take the first step and get behind the wheel for the first time, I still have mini panic attacks before I drive anywhere and almost had a full blown panic attack while driving today (I'm still in the learning stage) but it's so much better than it was. I seriously thought I had no hope and would never overcome my anxiety, thought I'd be relying on rides my whole life but realistically that's just not possible. I'm in my 20s for reference and I just recently got my learners permit.
How are u doin with driving
I actually choked up listening to this. This is me, down to a tee, since I had a really bad accident in 2019 (I was fine and no one else was involved). As soon as you mentioned some people need to have water with them, I lost it. It's comforting to know that other people are dealing with this too and that my coping mechanisms aren't unusual.
I'm great with driving a few blocks away, but actively work against driving far to meet with family because I don't like the feeling of being stuck. Living in the countryside, I also have a fear of something happening (medical emergency, car accident, etc.) and help not arriving in time, just like my accident back when. I'm moving 4 hours away in a month, by myself, and have to get this under control so I'm not hyperventilating the entire drive while also driving a giant truck. This video has been very helpful so far!
Thank you so much. I often feel like a burden for not driving & relying on others but this is so validating. I’m ready to get my freedom back.
It isn’t fun to feel like a burden. Each of us wants our independence. I know it’s hard, but promise yourself to keep working at it.
Everything you said was exactly how I feel, I’ve always felt like there was something wrong with me for being so afraid to drive but now I know that it’s a real thing and I’m going to start to put these things Into practice to be able to drive comfortably like I could before I had a panic attack while driving, this video was very helpful!
That’s wonderful. Glad the video was helpful. ❤️
Exactly how I feel too
@@albertecheverria3112 me too! Did u try doing this ?
I've had driving anxiety since I first got my license at age 16 (I'm 63 now), the year my panic attacks started. I've had periods of time when I've been better; like being able to drive around town pretty easily when my youngest daughter was growing up, but I have never been able to drive any distances over about 20 minutes in the car. Since the start of 2020 I have not driven at all since we have been isolated due to being high risk for viral infections. My driver's license expired 2 months ago and I really have to get it renewed but I am scared to death of trying to drive after 3 years of not doing so. I also really have nowhere to go for the most part as the only thing my husband and I do is pick up groceries. We have still not gotten out of isolation but are hoping to this summer. I know this going to be a major challenge for me. I appreciate the video. I am just still so unsure of even getting back out there at all.
Thank you for sharing. It is so difficult to break through periods when we haven’t driven in awhile. You are not alone. Perhaps getting the license renewed is the first step that may motivate you to begin again. ❤️
Sounds so familiar mine happens when I’m at a stop light and intersections with cars all around me
You are not alone. I hear that from a lot of people. There is a fear of not being able to escape happening. Remind yourself that you are in control and keep training your brain that you can handle it no matter what. 😊
I just started driving today after suffering a Panic Attack in February and been struggling since. Your video has come at the right time.
I am glad that it was at the right time for you. 😊
Thank you very much
I've been dealing with this for 4 years now, and the more exposure I do, the less I'm able to drive on my own. It's almost like having constant panic attacks just reinforces the idea that driving is dangerous.
What's worse - I used to love driving 😭
This is me. Practiced for over a year and just traumatised me more. I don’t think I was resisting but was scared for sure
Holy shit. I feel like this video is literally speaking my life for the past decade 😔. Thanks for the guidance! Looking forward to overcoming this phobia
I hope it helps you. I have a program that will provide much more help for driving anxiety and agoraphobia becoming available in January. If you are interested in learning more, you may sign up here to be notified: www.paigepradko.com/agoraphobia.
Dear Paige,
I am turning 54 in August.
I have been driving since I was 22 and this was never an issue till about 12 years ago.
Besides stuff which happened in my childhood I think the main reason for my highway driving anxiety is being on a high stress level for years due to a general anxiety disorder and a stressfull job.
I just want to say that I am going to use your method and wanted to thank you that the video that you made has all the explanation in the video itself instead of what most video's have: A little explanation and then: You can buy my book or whatever.
Greatings from The Netherlands
Thank you so much for this! I’m terrified just thinking about exposure therapy, but I know I must do it to get better. I had a panic attack while driving on the highway 5 years ago and since then driving has been a challenge for me. I currently only drive within a few minutes if my home.. I have my whole journey timed… my son’s school is 4 minutes away, grocery store is 5 minutes away.. these are literally the only 2 places I go regularly. I just moved to a new city and desperately want to explore our new home with my child ..its like a prison 😢
That’s challenging. But you’re right. You have to keep at it to get better. Allow the anxiety to wash over you, relax your hands on the wheel and keep driving.
Prison literally!
I understand sis.
You aren’t alone.
Omg she is good exactly how I feel I’m ready to overcome it I was doing so good up until my grandma passed in June 6 2023
I am so sorry about your grandmother. I am glad that you found the videos and I want to welcome you to the channel. ❤️
Grief can bring it up. Good job for seeking help, I think knowledge helps. Happy, relaxed travels to you!
Listened to you as I drove the neighborhood today. I took your advice and added spontaneity to my normal drive path and exited the neighborhood to reenter through a different street to return home and OMG did I think I was going pass out. 😅 despite the physical symptoms of panic, I made it home! 🎉
@@LokiOfWinterfell ….congratulations….that’s amazing work 🙌🎉
Thank you I needed this so badly. Its hard to explain to anyone thats not been through it. I went from tears on ny way home from work to hope. Thanks again ❤
It is a horrible thing to experience and I have so much compassion for you. But, I am glad that you are working on it and the video was helpful. ❤️
@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thank you so much!
@@PaigePradkoTherapymy biggest issue is am avoiding driving … once am in the car I am ok .. by this Dec 31 I want to drive daily, is it an achievable goal?
Your exposure therapy recommendations are helping me noticeably. Thank you so much for your commitment to alleviate anxiety situations.
That’s wonderful. Keep up the good work and thank you for sharing 😊❤️
this video has just been such a breathe of fresh air. when i describe this fear to people i feel like they think i'm crazy because they just can't understand why i would be so afraid. hearing someone describe this very specific kind of anxiety that i experience every time i get behind the wheel for the first time just makes me feel extremely seen. thank you.
I am glad you feel scene and understood. You are not alone. I have more help coming for driving and agoraphobia. If you are interested in learning more about these resources, please sign up for my newsletter at paigepradko.com. 😊
I am so happy I found your video. I am currently unemployed and mostly due to the fear of driving. I always loved driving and looked forward to driving. However had few negative experiences when on a long open road. Feeling like I was going to fast and breaking to hard. Or panic attacks forgetting how to drive or what to do. Avoiding roads to the point I don't drive anymore. I always feel so disappointed in myself. And often get criticized because of it. Which reinforces the feelings. I really want my confidence back. And hope to use these tips today.
Thank you for sharing your comment because you will help so many people that will relate to your story. Driving anxiety is usually related to the fear of having a panic attack while driving. It often takes committed work and treatment in two areas: treatment for panic disorder and treatment for driving under many circumstances and conditions. I will have a course and support group available soon for driving and people with agoraphobia. I already have a course to help you with recovering from panic disorder. You can find out more information at paigepradko,com.
This is me! I have fear of having a panic attack while driving and now I avoid so many circumstances 😢. Thank you for posting this video
Hello!
Thank you very much!
I have driving anxiety with agoraphobia and panic disorder. I don't have a car, however, it's hard for me to ride my bike and my tricycle. It's even hard for me to walk. I know I have to do exposures, but most of the time, I need to feel motivated. And I need a plan. Because I don't know how to start. I only stay in front of my building (on the parking lot). I never go farther. I wish I could go farther, but the problem is that I don't feel motivated to do so. I don't feel courageous enough. And I am a slow person. I miss the life I used to have. Years ago, riding my bike helped me overcome agoraphobia. But now it's different. It's harder.
Thank you very much for this video!
Hi Nicolas. You are not alone. Agoraphobia is a very challenging condition. I love that you have used a bike to help you recover before. And you are right, motivation and “wanting” to recover is essential to any process of change. Perhaps this summer you will want to ride your bike again.
Thank you❤🙏 I have been going through driving anxiety for 4 years after my panic attacks 4 years back. But now I feel confident now with these methods. Thankyou
You’re welcome. I hope they are helpful 😊
Hello Paige, I just want to say thank you so much for putting in the time and effort to create this content. It’s absolutely invaluable to me, and I can tell from the comments, many others. Have a lovely day. 💜
Thank you Taylor. So glad the content is helpful.
It happen so randomly. Very annoying.
It’s never to late to learn to drive. Get your learner permit and have a friend or family member as a passenger drive with you. Start by going down an empty open wide street just straight for 5 minutes at a time then keep adding time and distance as you get more comfortable. You’ll get this, believe me I understand, your not alone. Even though most people you know drive. There’s many in the world with this anxiety or fear. But you can overcome it. You must work hard and not give up!
Fantastic video. Thankyou. I get embarrassed myself I'm 30 years old. Yet I've always kept myself in a little radius whether it be work relationships it all has to be close to home because of driving anxietys. And it isn't healthy. Thank you for the video
Thank you so much for this information on how to overcome driving anxiety. I’ve been dealing with driving anxiety for 7 years and its debilitating. I used to always drive on highway and by myself no problem. But ever since i got into a car accident in 2017 i always been scared and anxious to drive and i’m still dealing with this problem
Thank you . I have agoraphobia and severe driving anxiety. I do have many of their props when I do drive
I hope this video helps you. 😊
Paige thank you so much for this video! I've struggled for a few years w driving anxiety. This structure for each driving session has helped immensely. I have been consistent w. My training and I'm seeing progress and more confidence each time. THANKS again!
Congratulations…that’s wonderful ❤️
Thank you for going in depth on how to go about exposure therapy. I went through countless therapists, I wasn't working at their pace, which just overwhelmed me that much more than I already was to begin with, one of them even resorted to telling me that I was wasting their time which brought me down even more and pushed me even farther away from trying to seek out help.
I've had Agoraphobia along with Driving Anxiety for at least a decade (I lost track of the exact amount of years) it's crippling not being able to leave the house. It's December at the time I'm writing this, and I only left my house once this entire year. It's difficult to just even be outside on my own property in general.
To make matters even worse, I now have a daughter that turns 2 at the end of the month, so on top of my Agoraphobia and Driving Anxiety, I now feel like a failure as a parent because I have these issues.
I'm pretty deep in the gutter here at the moment of writing this, but I still wanted to say thank you for going more in depth about how to go about exposure compared to other therapists basically telling me " you need to work on exposure but you also have to figure out for yourself how to do it"
So thank you for giving detailed and in depth pointers on how to tackle exposure. I'm terrified (but then again, who wouldn't be) but I want my life back, I want to enjoy life, I want to actually experience life, and I want to be the parent that I want to be for my daughter preferably before she gets to the age where she starts questioning why I can't go out and do anything with her.
I'll rewatch this video as many times as I need to as a constant reminder, I'm sorry for saying this so much, but thank you for making this video.
@@Just_Josh_Gaming , I’m so sorry you had that experience with other therapists. I specialize in treating people with agoraphobia and have more help at paigepradko.com.
I really enjoyed this video. It clicked for me that bringing things that make me feel “safe” are tricking my brain to think there’s still danger there. Ever since a car hit me while driving with my children 8 months ago driving alone with them has been beyond difficult. I will get back to normal. It’s all about building that confidence on the road again. Thank you!
I am sorry that happened to you as I am sure it was traumatic. Yes, it is about practice and tolerating anxiety and building up your confidence. ❤️
Ma'am, your videos help me a lot, in fact you are the only source of guidance/counseling in the situation.
I am so glad the video is helpful 😊
Wow, it feels like you literally just spoke directly to me. I’m trying to get through all this and I am going more the aggressive approach as I also know what that reward to thy brain and self feels like, however exhausted. I need to find a therapist available like you! You have a gift, thank you!
I just wanted to say thank you so much for this video. You have most certainly helped me get through traffic and ease the tension while getting to my destination. It is odd as a truck driver who has driven through many major cities in the US for the past five years And up until recently has it started to noticing affect me. Looking back in my first couple years I would get bruises on the right side of my shin from pressing up against the bottom of the center console, and this was without noticing. Driving a big truck and hauling heavy equipment I’ve dealt with a lot of reckless and careless people, and have always and heavy traffic almost preparing for impact. As you said, the best thing you could do is just realize that the traffic, the congestion, the madness, although it feels like forever, it will eventually clear. Thank you for your suggestions and calm approach to your solutions.
I’m glad I could be helpful. You have a challenging job.
I am amazed you mentioned all I do in this one video, the water, the meds (not taking them but having there for "just in case", the bridge avoidance, the racing thoughts, I have put in to practice your exposure method and it has helped me tremendously. I cannot thank you enough.
Hi. I am so glad that you related to the video and hope it helps you. 😊
Concise and helpful content. It's one of the most helpful videos I've seen. Immediately put the information to use, and I'm able to frame things better. Feeling optimistic :)
That’s wonderful. I am so glad the video is helpful. Thank you for sharing. ❤️
Here after the first 3 minutes of the video: it also doesn’t help when all I see is how easy people get pulled over. I feel like the moment I do anything (accidentally drive too fast or too slow or forget to turn off my signal or break too much) that I’ll get pulled over and get arrested
12:39 I was thinking about not driving with my parents because they are a major part of my anxiety. When they panic, I start panicking and getting confused. I’ll try driving with them again and push through their backseating
I had an accident a few hours after getting my license, it was my first time ever driving alone. I went off the road and overcorrected, and then overcorrected again. I hit a tree and flipped my aunts car. Its so hard driving and its really scary. I never drive anywhere outside my small neighborhood.
That was so unfortunate. I am so sorry that happened to you. When I first got my license, I was also in an accident that I caused. We were both new drivers and it happens. I didn’t flip my car, but I did hit another car. It was very upsetting and I understand why it scared you. Sometimes we have scary experiences and we have to get right back out there and keep driving. I am glad you are driving, but I hope that you continue to build courage to drive beyond your town.
Wow this helped so much this morning. Im practicing driving in morning traffic right now. And i have someone following me as well. Wow.
Great job! So glad the video helped.
Having these feelings while driving can be debilitating. I'm fine on the back roads and main streets, but on the highway, just thinking about having to go on the highway makes the anxiety kick in. I hate feeling this way.
This is the exact feeling I’m having and I used to love driving long distance. Now I’m taking longer driving main roads 😩
I am 27 years old in this year. Although i hoped to drive, and i tried to get a driver's license and can be able to drive for 2 years, i always failed in driving exam and just was not thinking of this.
But when listening to this youtube, i decided again to go to a driving academy again by saving some of the money i earn to drive, as early as i can from now. Just waiting for a bus or a subway is really a bored thing.
Paige I can’t thank you ENOUGH for this video. I’m so glad I found you. I’ve been dealing with some pretty extreme long distance driving anxiety. It kind of just snuck up on me and happened out of nowhere. I used to never be this way. It’s something that has made going home to Utah to see my family extremely hard. I’m just terrified to drive long distance alone. It’s only a 7 hour drive and it’s something I’ve done multiple times. Thank you so much for your kind words. I know with your suggestions and resources I can do this! 💗
So happy that this video was helpful. Keep driving and if you need more help, contact me at paigepradko.com
I can go certain places but if it’s big cities I can only stay on outskirts, I have trouble driving over bridges above water. For some reason I feel much calmer driving at night or when it rains.
My driving anxiety is when I am at a red traffic light and waiting for the light to turn green. It is worse when I am waiting to turn left when the light is red.
Yes. It is common for people to have anxiety when stopping at a red light, or when feeling trapped in traffic. Keep working on those situations that cause anxiety. 😊
@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thank you. I'm improving. It was so worse before but now I can manage, just need to work on it more. Facing it is the key is what you said. It really works for me
I was perfectly fine til I had a panic attack in December. Started staying home for a few months now it’s been a struggle getting out the house. I can’t drive anywhere alone. Can’t sit at a stop light, catch a train, be stuck in traffic…this is a nightmare 🥹
That sounds horrible. I am so sorry that happened. I want to encourage to begin treating the panic disorder and agoraphobia. If you need help, here are some resources:
PDF: What to do when Panic Strikes: FACE Fear
paigepradko.com/facefear
Panic Attacks Quiz
www.paigepradko.com/panic-quiz
Your Panic Attacks Are NOT the Boss OnLine Course
www.paigepradko.com/panic
So thankful to have come across this video. I've had trouble driving for 2 years. How can I identify if my driving problem is from Anxiety or something else (vertigo, BVD, etc)? I have seen multiple providers without any answers.
Watched this video a few months ago before I started my journey on learning how to drive, how I’m coming back to it with my license, about to drive by myself for the first time, the nerves are still there, but I battle them with the knowledge that I am capable!
That’s incredible! You are an inspiration! You’ve got this…keep going! ❤️
I didn’t have this until a couple years ago. I never liked bridges but now I can’t even drive on the freeway. I didn’t have a panic attack, it’s from people driving way more crazy and aggressive in the past few years. I’ve also read it can happen with perimenopause.
Thank you for the advice…
You’re welcome ☺️
I used to be scared/anxious of driving because of my driving instructor who was very mean and angry. Didnt drive until I was in my twenties, until I could borrow my girlfriends car on occasion and go for a drive in a known area
I wasnt necessarily having thought or fears about accidents or whatnot, although maybe a little, more about getting judged if I made a mistake etc.
The secret is to just drive in your own speed/tempo and not to worry about what others are think, because to be truthful, they're probably not thinking much.
Yes, learning to drive can be an anxiety provoking experience if the instructor is not a calm person. Glad that you found a way to move past that fear. Thanks for sharing. 😊
Remember that you're never alone. All of us are facing this together and just recently, I went on a drive to be with my partner and sister. And I'm so happy to be able to have the confidence to try driving on my own today.
So encouraging. Great job!
I am learning to drive and i have had 4 lessons so far. My last lesson i drove 15 miles there and 15 miles back. when i got on the dual carriageway where the speed is 70mph i had a panic attack. This was really scary. I have no problem with my driving apart from common new learner mistakes. I have no idea why i had panic attack because i know there was no danger.
We can panic sometimes while driving. You want to make sure that you keep driving. Do not pause and try to get back out there driving as soon as possible. If it happens again, drive through the symptoms and it is good to know that nothing about a panic attack can harm you. You will still be able to operate the vehicle just fine.
I was in a car accident last year and driving on the interstate gives me so much anxiety. I can’t stop feeling like I’m sliding all over the road and even when I’m not sliding.
Thank you for the encouraging words in the end of the video. Those really helped and gave me confidence to go and help myself over come this dis-ease.
Hi Frank. Hope you are well. I have a very helpful program becoming available in 4 weeks…and I had you in mind in the driving section.
It's not a disease.
You simply need more practice in controlling your thoughts.
Just like gym exercises, your brain will respond and grow with more practice. More reps and more sets.
There will be ups and downs as you progress but the graph will trend upwards overall.
I’m so glad I’m not alone. Last year I had no choice but to leave because we were being evacuated and had to travel 8 hours away from home because of the Canadian wildfires. Those 8 hours were the longest 8 hours in my life.
@@LPe-z2l, so tough. Sorry you had to go through that.
I’m 17 and I struggled with driving. Failed my road test twice and couldn’t do it. Took a while to get rid of it by driving everyday at night.
Keep going failed three times
@@lavonnealexander6936 I haven’t even done my third one 😢 I bought a car yesterday. It should help me motivate to go and practice to get my N
I got my driver's license nearly a year ago, I had really bad anxiety before because of my experiences while learning I was made to feel like every mistake I was making was horrible and now I feel like everything im doing is wrong even though I know it's not. I was driving to work and back and ventured farther out (I have a 30 year old car and it has been sitting for a while which added to my fear) I started to become more confident until one day I got off of work and this anxiety I hadn't felt in a while hit me, it was strange because it was so sudden and I couldn't pinpoint why. When I was making a right turn I went into the farthest left lane which was my mistake because I thought I had time and I got into a minor accident. It wasnt bad and the other driver was nice but it felt like all my thoughts about how I was a bad driver and I didn't know what I was doing and I didn't trust my car etc, were coming back, especially since it wss outside of work and infront of an autoshop of people I knew I felt even more embarrassed. I've driven 3 or 4 times since then but each time I have this extreme anxiety. It's been months and it wasn't that bad but I still have this feeling of fear, now that I have a newer car that ill damage that one and that my mom will be mad. (I'm 19)
I'm not sure how to go about it especially living in a bad neighborhood with high traffic and frequent accidents
I’m sorry that happened to you. It is difficult to build confidence when you are a new driver, especially after having a little accident. I can relate because I also had an accident shortly after I began driving. You are human and it takes time to build that confidence and it is more difficult to be in a neighborhood where you don’t feel safe and there is high traffic. Treat yourself with compassion and yet allow yourself the driving opportunities to build your confidence. You will one day be a really great driver because of that experience of living in a high traffic area.
Wow. This describes me to a t. I had a panic attack on the expressway and haven't been the same driver since. I used ti be confident and self assured now I feel incredibly anxious while driving and fear that I'll lose control.
I suffered the same.
You need to acknowledge the loud inner voice that's cautioning you. Tell it that there is no danger and that the loud voice itself will cause the danger. Make a deal with the voice. Tell it you will demonstrate and prove there is no danger and ask it to stay quiet for that particular drive.
Once you reach your destination, acknowledge the win. Allow yourself to enjoy the win. Be proud and happy. Have a followup chat with that inner voice afterwards.
Really useful 😊
thank you Dr. Pradko this is exactly my issue and what I needed, bless you 🙏🏼
I am so glad. 🙏❤️
Im driving since I was 19 years. In the last 10 years if I go on the highway, I panic and I end up half in the lay-by, on a low speed. This results I driver's flashing and beeping at me. In this result I get of highway and go the side roads. 😢
Plus I'm worse if someone is driving with me.
Hi! How would you overcome the fear of "being stuck" in traffic? I can drive, no problem at all, but I panic when stuck at red light, or just in car traffic. This does not happen when in bike
Hi. Yes, this is a common phobia that is caused by the fear of being trapped and being unable to escape easily. To over come the fear, you will need to practice exposures in those situations. The exposures will be things like driving in heavy traffic, driving in the middle lane, driving in construction zones, stopping at lots of red lights, especially in lanes where you cannot turn very easily. You are not looking to have no anxiety as a result, you are just looking to tolerate the symptoms and not avoid them. Make sure you are not using safety behaviors like listening to music or other distractions.
Thank you!
I have a licence and I've recently bought a car. Yet not ready to go for trips alone because of fear of getting lost or ending up on big roundabouts or high speed roads. I drove a few times with my partner in the car, because I thought I will be more comfortable. However, sometimes he tends to lose his patience and shouts at me when I make mistakes and my driving only gets worse after that. I understand that I should come out of my comfort zone and practice alone. I really must do something about this.
Hi we have the same situation. I wish you the best. Goodluck to both of us
@jenicena1490
Thank you for your words🤍
I wish you all the best with your driving, too! We'll get through this💪
Good luck to us both! )
@@CrisTK1 thank you too. Sending hugs from manila philippines 😊
Thank you so much for your wonderful tips and advice.
You’re welcome. I hope you find them helpful. ☺️
I always feel like I get very tense and anxious and feel like I can’t breathe. The feeling of that is my biggest obstacle.
@@SnarkticonDM Sorry you are going through that. That is a symptom of hyperventilation. Exhale slowly (to the count of 8) to reverse hyperventilation. Your body will also regulate hyperventilation on it’s own…. you don’t need to take in more air or breath deeper or anything like that.
I passed my test in my mid 40s here in England, after on off lessons with 10 year gaps due to cost life etc!! But my dads cars gears were breaking… and hand break…… throw in lots of roundabouts ,narrow roads and people going 50 mph on your back down bendy tiny roads is terrifying! Had to drive to work and my daughter etc…dad in hospital….I had to do it even though terrified….nearly broke down on motorway etc! Pulled off had to be towed home as clutch going etc that was scary!!!….Now second hand new car have to get use to ,6 gears quickly, have stalled in middle of road as so diff to dads car ,gears ,breaks really sensitive,biting point etc …but driving round local area at night. Just get use to car, getting there! Just annoyed to be so stressed when want to enjoy it.
That sounds very challenging. Good for you that you are pushing through those obstacles.
How would you suggest to cope with anxiety of people tailgating (other drivers driving their vehicle very near to the rear of my vehicle) when I'm driving at the posted speed limit?
I always feel I need to increase the distance between vehicles (somehow), but at the same time I feel freeze panic and get 'tunnel vision' and lose some situational awareness with tailgaters driving closely.
This happens even sometimes even when I'm in the slow lane with muti lanes open that the other drivers can choose if they want to go faster, but they choose to tailgate my vehicle for many minutes, very closely.
I am sorry that happens. Some drivers try to intimidate other drivers. Perhaps have a little conversation with yourself that you have a right to be driving on that road too. If you are in the left lane, then move to the right lane. If you are in the right lane, stay where you are and they will eventually pass you if they want to go faster. You are not doing anything wrong. People are just impatient at times. Relax, exhale, loosen your grip and just allow them to pass.
I always wanted to seek comfort to recover but it never worked. Time to get uncomfortable 🙏🏽
This is such a great video 👏🏼 Thank you
Glad it was helpful! 🙏❤️
How do I do exposures in the car with my kids? I just feel like I’m going to scare them if I start to panic or talking to myself about being nervous. I can do the exposures fine alone
What you may experience is that your desire to appear confident in front of your kids actually helps you to move through your exposures. Release the tension in your shoulders and hands as you’re driving. Panic and anxiety are the result of an adrenaline surge and this reaction does not put you in any danger.
I have anxiety driving on hwy or long bridges. Pretty much avoid it. However, I ride a motorcycle and can do anything freely. My head is totally clear.
I had one panic attack while driving once about a month ago and now it keeps on happening. I worry that I’m going to pass out and it’ll make me crash so I tell myself I have to pull over but then I feel like doing that makes it worse because I’m telling myself that I’m not safe. :(
That must have been very scary to experience. You will want to drive as often as possible, practice most every day. If you avoid driving this fear can spread. If you keep working at this, it will eventually resolve on its own. It is a good thing that you caught this and are working on correcting it. You cannot pass out even if you feel dizzy from high anxiety or panic. Just keep on driving.
I had an accident at age 16 and have never drove since. I'm 20 now and I don't have my license. I am trying to learn again but I am just so scared.
I have done exposure therapy for social anxiety in the past. My therapist is helping me with driving anxiety as well
I am so glad you are working on this with your therapist. Good job! Keep going. Driving anxiety takes time…stay consistent with your practice regardless of whether or not anxiety symptoms show up.
I can’t really explain how or why but all of the sudden I started getting nervous driving home from work at night. The bright lights and the cars passing me at high speeds begin to give me anxiety. Then I start thinking about the speed I’m doing, how the road is passing me so fast. I start to grip the wheel so hard that my hands get sore. I go to the far right lane to slow down and begin to breath heavily to try and calm myself. My head begins to feel lighter and it feels like I will lose control. I push through the drive and get home. Once I get off the freeway I feel so much relief. Sometimes this feeling happens the drive to my work now which is in the daytime and usually didn’t occur. It feels like my speed and thinking about how fast I’m going is what triggers it but I’m not certain if that is the only thing as the lights bother me too at night. Feels like I’m rambling now but man, it’s nice to read the comments and see that others are also feeling this way. As a man I feel so weird this came out of no where, weak even.
I know it is tough to go through this. Read back your comments and you can understand why your brain and body become anxious when you have those thoughts. You are unintentionally training your brain to be afraid. Keep driving in all conditions, but try to relax your hands on the wheel and try to not be concerned about whether or not you experience anxiety symptoms. If you begin to worry about how you are feeling, the fear will endure.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy thank you. I tried to remember some of the things you mention in the video today. I’m going to get over this! I appreciate your comment and support.
A lot of this advice hinges on someone WANTING to drive and overcome those anxieties. I don't want to drive. I don't want to drive on freeways or highways or in heavy traffic.
@@taylorbug9, yes, you have to WANT to do something in order to have the motivation to do the work. I agree.
@PaigePradkoTherapy so what do I do when I have to do these things but have no desire to? My mom is making me get my license and a car, but every time I think about practicing driving (I already learned how, I just have very little practice), it fills me with dread. I don't want to drive. I want to live in a world that doesn't depend on cars.
@ , in my opinion, it will be difficult to overcome if you have no desire or want to drive. You would have to find a reason to want to drive to progress.
I am happy, but also so sad this needed to be made! I have had a problem with driving (particularly bridges and overpasses) since my son was born six years ago. I drove about 180 miles round trip a couple months back thinking the "exposure" would help but it made it worse, likely because of all the "safety behaviors" and distractions I implemented (including hauling my poor MIL along to talk me off the ledge.)
Sorry to hear that. Driving exposures take consistent practice and letting go of those avoidances and safety behaviors. But, if you can do a 180 mile drive, you can keep going and make progress. 😊
My issue is that I'm bad at driving, and I feel overwhelmed by the stimulus and unable to focus. I can't focus on going at the right speed, looking for pedestrians, looking at signs etc. I remember panicking at a stop sign and flooring it and almost getting in an accident when I was 19. I have never owned my own car and have refused to drive since. It sucks though, because not being able to drive in America basically makes you a second class citizen unless you live in a big metro area.
My problem is irritability in traffic. About a year ago I stopped drinking & smoking weed & ever since I started to get these panic attacks out of nowhere. Keep in mind I drank & smoked for years. When I stopped both of those cold turkey, about 3-4 months after is when I had my first panic attack at work. I seriously felt like I was going to die. I managed to get through it by clinching my teeth together & squeezing my hands together. It has gotten better but now I am having problems driving my family around. I get annoyed easily & anxious, then I starts to trigger my anxiety. I feel useless as a man. I try to hide it from my wife & kids. My problem is that by the time I get home I am very exhausted from fighting the whole drive. I’m at a point where I can’t take it anymore. I can’t even ride my motorcycle anymore. I tried it & almost dropped my bike at a stop light in traffic. I barely was able to control it. It only triggers while I’m at a stop light or bad traffic. I guess weed & drinking helped me mellow out & chill. I’m at a point where I am about to start drinking again just to feel normal
I just can't recongaise myself! I just can't understand this insanity I feel! I'm not myself anymore! Driving was the only thing Ibhave in my life...now this is also taken! WTF
I feel you
I deal with this bad,I drive a tractor trailer for a living and I get very nervous while I'm driving a truck!! Im perfectly fine when I drive my personal car or motorcycle..i only get nervous while on the interstate..i just don't understand it!!
That’s surprising that while driving for many hours that your fear is still there. I wonder if you are trying to distract yourself from your fear.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy I think alot of it has to do with sitting in a truck all day,plus I go back and forth to the same location! It gets old seeing the same road every day lol
Fantastic video! I use it with my clients.
Thank you. That’s great to hear from another therapist. ❤️
Hi mam what to if someone make and make you down your driving is not good
I am so sorry if that happened to you. Just keep on driving and you will gain your confidence back.
I always thought it was caffeine that gave me a heightened feeling of anxiety to I avoided it knowing I had to drive a long distance. But now even though I don’t drink caffeine, it started happening again when I drive on interstate.
Wow all the signs you’ve mentioned about when driving is what I’ve been going through for quite a while now and I’m sick of it to the point where I drive when i want to now, even tho I’m still very aware of how I feel physically like vertigo off balance, feeling as if I need food with me etc. it really is strange as I’m someone that loves driving but with this going on it feels dangerous most of the time. Also it seems to be not as bad when I’m actually driving moving than being stopped in traffic. There’s been numerous times where I’ve got into my car set off somewhere and then changed my mind and come back home just because i didn’t feel right mentally. Lastly I’ll say this there is no rush to leave the house or drive on a motorway but if you can your onto recovery faster and you are also a stronger person than you think.
Keep up the good work, @adamr6780. If you need support or guidance, I have a wonderful support group at paigepradko.com as well as other resources.
i have severe driving fear and emetaphobia (fear of vomiting) and its so hard to get the motivation to even get in the car.Everytime i get in the car i feel really sick and it starts to get hard to breathe.I never used to be like this and i really enjoyed driving but now i feel so trapped.
Having a trouble trying to get back into it it freaks me out ...I think my why is is losing control...I want freedom mine started when I was little I had a dream about being in the car with my mom and got thrown out of the car and crawl the other side of the road and saw a car with lights shining comes towards me
I am sorry you are having that struggle. I hope you continue to work at it. ❤️
Thank you I need a car to practice
I been working my way up to this.. I have adhd so my mind wonders plus a little obsessive
So sometimes when I was driving my mind would get lost or freaked out.. it’s also been a very stressfulll time with work changing jobs so I think this triggered anxiety but u been pushing myself and talking to myself while driving on highway..
I got a job that required the highway an at first I had little panics an would exit too soon
Now I can drive further an I will drive further up for the next job
I have had a terrible time driving for years. Now, I don't drive and have to rely on rides. Sitting at stop lights, stop signs and waiting for a left hand turn are all extremely difficult. I feel like I need to escape. It's really hard. I also have trouble in crowds, especially if I am somewhere I can't get out easily, such as up in bleachers. Is this related?
Hi Jennifer. What you are describing is possibly agoraphobia. It is a fear of being unable to escape. It is challenging but treatable by consistently facing your fears.
I had agoraphobic pretty bad in the past and my girlfriend at the time help me get through it I will always appreciate her for doing that but I don't see her no more but I think my driving anxiety started happening when I saw some pretty bad accidents in front of me where there was a dead body in the middle of the road that was completely smashed and I drove past it and I saw it all and the other time was when my brother was driving his old van the drive shaft broke and hit the gas tank and I was literally in gold and flames inside the van and once I got out of the van it went into flames and after the incidents has been really bad for me to drive
I can understand having anxiety after experiencing those traumatic events. I hope you are able to keep practicing.
@PaigePradkoTherapy some days are better than others thank you Paige 💕 I just take day by day and I'm trying my best 🙏