So I had my first session, addressing my driving anxiety, with a therapist. Before we got started he asked me when I last drove and what about driving caused me anxiety. At the time of the session I had driven the day before and what causes me anxiety other than the proximity of other vehicles is the anticipation of being out on the roads in traffic.
I have never had an accident or a panic attack whilst driving. I have held a full drivers license since November 1991. Yet, I feel anxious about getting in my car and driving. Something I have done countless times over thousands of miles.
During the course of my therapy I was reminded that I have judged traffic situations and driven safely for years. I was reminded to notice the positive influence I have over the road around me and I was made to appreciate that I’m not entirely in control, at most I control 50% of what is going on around me when I’m driving.
After the session, I felt positive about driving and the agreement was I would be driving for the week before my next appointment. As fate would have it I have to drive to my next appointment anyway. Although, I found it harder to let go and go with the flow of the hypnotherapy this session. I have been able to drive and combat some anxiety. Tomorrow, I take myself to my next session and although the anxiety is there, I’m looking forward to addressing it.
Ajoobacats Blog 
How wonderful! I’m glad that you’ve been able to tackle this. I have a few friends and family members who have major anxiety over driving. One friend refuses to get her license, although she wants the freedom of being able to drive and not rely on others.
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Thank you. It’s such a common thing to be anxious about and exploring what causes the anxiety and why has been fascinating and rewarding. I wish I’d addressed it sooner.
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Thank you for posting! I suffer also with anxiety when driving. I am going to try seeing the positive as was suggested to you! Hoping it will lead to some improvement. Right now I go into panic mode as soon as I get behind the wheel.
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I feel your frustration. Even the thought of driving makes me have a bad day sometimes, but I either drive or miss out on experience and I think my mental illness has deprived me lots already.
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