Walking Off The Weight

Driving can be a scary experience and some people may need Panic Attacks Help to get back in the driving seat. It’s not uncommon to feel a little nervous driving but some of us may find it extremely difficult or impossible to get in a car, without fear of having a panic attack. Each person may have their reason for fearing to drive. Having been in an accident or knowing someone close who’s been in one can trigger fear and anxiety about driving.

When a person perceives a threat or danger the body responds to this, which in some people can be interpreted as an anxiety attack. Simply having feelings, thoughts and images of fear can trigger the ‘fight or flight’ response. In prehistoric times the stress response enabled man to fight with more speed, strength and alertness. However, in the modern world this response has become more redundant. Our biggest enemy today is stress, and this alone can trigger the response unnecessarily.

We have all experienced stress and the symptoms of stress at some point in our lives and especially those with anxiety or depressive disorders. Persons with a phobia or anxiety disorder generally possess a more sympathetic nervous system. Driving fears may sometimes be linked to a distressing experience but usually they develop over time. Normally a full blown attack occurs from having experienced several smaller episodes of anxiety and fear.

Driving in an unfamiliar area, stuck in a traffic jam, being honked at, driving at high speeds on the highway and getting lost; these experiences can all instill fear of driving. Attacks may seem to come out of the blue. A driver might feel their chest hurt, temperature increase and muscles shake uncontrollably. It is a terrifying experience that can put both the driver and others around them at risk.

It’s not surprising that some people refuse of dread getting back into a vehicle. Getting Panic attacks treatment is not essential since it’s the choice of the driver whether they can live without driving again, but it is a good idea to overcome one’s fears. Having a car is sometimes a necessity.

Anti-anxiety medication or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are two forms of panic attacks help you might expect from your physician. It’s essential to speak to a physician before taking any medication before driving. Some medications may cause drowsiness and impair driving. Non-medicated ways of treatment such as CBT and exposure therapy are much more suited.

Breathing exercises, EFT and positive affirmations are also useful for those looking for alternative Panic Attacks help. Preparation is a great help for those who are anxious about driving. Don’t get into a car in an emotional state. Before driving get yourself in a relaxed state through breathing exercises. Take a mobile phone, a snack, a CD and a paper bag with you.

Ensure that you plan your route carefully and you know exactly where you’re going. Try not to drive during rush hour. Turn on the radio to help soothe your nerves. As you drive, keep a relaxed and steady breath, and relax you body. Use reassuring and positive statements and imagine getting to your destination safely and calmly.

When symptoms of anxiety start it can be frightening, but stay composed, breathe and remember that what you’re feeling is merely the overproduction of adrenaline and the sensations will subside. As soon as you think that you’re going to have a panic attack, find a safe place to pull over. Some people find breathing into a paper bag helps them to calm down. If you don’t feel fit to drive don’t, try to call for assistance instead.

Filed under: Health And Fitness Articles on August 26th, 2010