Driving You Crazy: Driving Phobia And Its Treatment

It’s a surprise to most people – including those that suffer from it – that driving phobia is one of the most common phobias.

This is because it’s a hidden phobia: sufferers are embarrassed by it so they go to great lengths to accommodate and conceal their fear. And they think they are alone. But they are not. Their condition is well understood by phobia specialists and their symptoms, avoidance patterns and responses are very similar to those of other silent sufferers.

Fear of Driving and Automatic Negative Thoughts

The fear of driving is often complicated, if not caused by, the individuals’ automatic negative thoughts. These thoughts can be scary and irrational, such as the concern that they will veer into oncoming traffic or drive off a bridge. These thoughts are often described as the most bothersome symptom of driving anxiety and they can be the actual triggers for panic attacks while driving. Controlling these thoughts is critical to success in eliminating a driving phobia.

Reducing Fear of Driving with Proper Breathing

Driving can often cause fear, anxiety and panic which creates problems with breathing. By learning a few simple techniques you can easily recognize when your breathing is abnormal and be able to act upon it to prevent any further anxiety. This article outlines the symptoms of driving fear and also how to reduce the problems through proper breathing.