Panic Attacks While Driving

Panic attacks while driving can be very frightening and very dangerous. But before we discuss how to deal with these attacks, perhaps we should define what they are and why they occur.

A panic attack is characterized by a sudden, overwhelming sense of fear or extreme unease. Accompanying this fear is often a whole host of physical symptoms. Shallow breathing, rapid heartbeat, perspiration, trembling and even mysterious pain can all be signs of a panic attack, and when those symptoms strike it can make a person feel like they are losing control. If you have experienced these symptoms, you know just how debilitating they can make you feel.

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Panic attacks while driving are especially problematic, but contrary to commonly held beliefs, these attacks do not necessarily signal a fear of driving. Instead, the fear is usually rooted in the frightening notion of having another attack while driving. This fear, which can be utterly paralyzing, causes many sufferers to avoid driving, especially if they have had a previous attack in the car. They begin to associate driving with panic, and their fear of getting behind the wheel is more of an avoidance tactic than a phobia—one which can significantly alter their lives.

So what should you do to avoid or cope with panic attacks while driving? Most importantly do not give credence to the power of these panic attacks by refusing to drive. This is the worst thing you can do. It is a tactic which will only perpetuate your fears. Only by facing your fear of panic attacks while driving will you be able to deal with them effectively. That being said, there are a few things you can do to either avoid panic attacks or cope with them effectively when you are behind the wheel.

Avoiding Panic Attacks while Driving

The tricks to avoiding panic attacks while driving are not really tricks but simply safe ways to distract your attention. If you are concentrating on something else rather than dreading a panic attack, the chance of one developing will be reduced significantly. Here are a few things you can try:

• Listen to your favorite music CD or relaxation tape
• Sing out loud
• Eat a light snack
• Focus on your breathing

Coping with Panic Attacks while Driving

If you do begin to feel the symptoms of a panic attack while driving, try to stay calm. You are going to be okay. You just need some time to get put things back into perspective. If you can pull over safely to the side of the road, go ahead and do it. Get out of the car and stretch or take a little walk. If you can’t pull over safely, here are a few things you can do to bring the attack under control:

• Breathe. A panic attack may cause you to hyperventilate. Focus on taking deep breaths, inhaling through your nose.
  
  
• Reassure yourself. Positive affirmations or self-talk using reassuring mantras can help you keep the panic attack in perspective and will help quell your symptoms a bit more quickly.
  
  
• When the panic subsides, continue driving to your destination. Don’t let your fears become phobic.

Panic attacks while driving can be very frightening, but they are not the end of the world. The most important thing you can do is to, first ensure your own safety by pulling over safely, and then allow yourself time to deal with the effects in a positive way. Do not allow your fear to alter your life’s routines. Avoidance will only lead to a worsening of your symptoms.

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