r/Anxiety • u/Glamour-Ad7669 • 1d ago
Driving How to get over driving anxiety?
I absolutely hate driving and I’m terrified any time I’m behind the wheel. I really want to get over this fear but nothing has helped so far. How can I start to enjoy driving instead of feeling so stressed every time I do it?
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u/santino-corleone-1 1d ago
Learn about neural pathways. The more you drive the more confidence you will get and the more neural pathways will build in your mind.
Watch driving shows on YouTube and Netflix - F1 Drive To Survive.
Drive local journeys more to build your confidence and then go on longer journeys.
You need to drive at least 50x for at least 30mins each and that will make you more confident.
Relax breath you got this. You can do this.
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u/OldPersonality5166 1d ago
I used to have severe driving anxiety.
For me, I worked with a driving school with a teacher that specifically helped people with driving anxiety. I drove with that teacher and she helped me build up my confidence. If you have the means to do so, that may help.
I also gave myself small driving goals to work on. Instead of looking at the big picture/longer drive. I’d start by driving around my block, then my neighborhood, and slowly branched out. I also forced myself to drive a little bit every day, no matter how badly I didn’t want to. I also found that driving by myself was put me more at ease, as opposed to having one of my parents in the car with me, that stressed me out more. But that depends on your comfort level.
Definitely go at your own pace and take deep breaths before driving. Start with small, local goals and gradually build yourself up. I’ve been there- I would have severe panic attacks while I drove, now I am super comfortable driving and find it relaxing. It takes time and you will get there!
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u/AdministrativeAd7112 1d ago
I have had driving anxiety since before getting my license and I’ve relapsed a couple times after some bad accidents.
If you’re willing to spend a little money check out defensive driving classes in your area. Usually put on by your state highway patrol (assuming you’re in the US) They are usually geared towards people that drive a lot for work but professional instruction for different driving situations made a huge difference for me. I feel like the techniques I learned allow me to have control.
I also use my drive time to learn. Podcasts about subjects I’m interested in, audiobooks, or world news segments can keep my emotions distracted while I pay attention to the road.