Driving anxiety is a common problem which is experienced by many drivers. It is extremely difficult to understand the pervasive impact of this problem especially if you have not suffered from it. If you are unable to drive then your career, social activities, and mental health might be affected.

Many people suffer from this problem in silence, and they have no means of addressing it. These individuals are forced to limit their travelling to those places which can be reached using the public means of transport or where their friends can assist them. This problem might become worse if someone owns a personal car. You will find these people making constant excuses since they cannot make it to those events which require them to drive.

Just like with the other forms of phobias, the fear of driving is taken to be a state of someone’s mind. This is not a disease. These are people who have accidentally trained their subconscious mind such that reacts in an unproductive manner when it comes to driving. This problem can be resolved by retraining the body and the mind to react in a better way. This will help in getting rid of the unreasonable fear. The following are some of the steps which will help you in moving towards the right direction by eliminating the driving anxiety.

Slowing down your breathing rate

This will involve learning the initial signs related to fear. Some of the common symptoms include heart racing or sweating and stomach pains. You are advised to say aloud, “this is not a big deal issue” whenever you notice these signs. You should then breathe slowly. The process of breathing slowly has a calming effect on the body and the brain. Taking deep and slow breaths are helpful in stabilizing the heart rate. Your body will feel relaxed when your heart beat is stable.

Avoid driving during the rush hour

You can do this by driving early when the road is not busy. This is helpful in reducing the stress level associated with the busy traffic jam. Rushes can be avoided by scheduling your time properly.

Taking a ride with your friend

Sometimes you can decide to take a ride together with your family member or friend. Such friends will offer you moral support and eventually boost your confidence. You can assign them some tasks such as reading the addresses or handling the GPS system while you are driving.

Listening to soothing music

A soothing music will impact feelings and moods dramatically. You should listen to the songs which you enjoy by preselecting your favourite CDs. This will help in establishing a pleasant connotation to driving.