I am new here

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-25-2005
I am new here
3
Mon, 05-30-2005 - 7:32pm
My name is Cindy and I am new here. I am looking for people who have driving phobias. I am looking for ways to cope. I look forward to meeting all of you...
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
In reply to: cat42066
Mon, 05-30-2005 - 10:55pm

What a pleasure to have you here, Cindy! You are not alone. Driving phobias are our specialty. I didn't get behind the wheel for 3 years. I did see a counselor for depression & was on an antidepressant, but worked on the fear alone. I began what we call the small step approach. First I would drive to the end of the street & back. Then a couple of blocks from home & back. Always pushing myself till I felt anxious, but not panicking. As time went on, I was able to add more distance & spend longer periods away from home. I have some fears of bridges & tunnels & stop & go traffic, but I practice breathing & relaxation exercises to get me through. Since there are so many rivers where I live, there's not a chance that I can go anywhere without facing the bridges. I don't even think about it anymore. It is doable. Also, there are some, including our cl-Suz who used hypnosis. She'll share her thoughts later.


For now, join in our discussions, read the back posts on driving fears & check out our chats. Bookmark us to your favorites. Our caring community can be your new home:) Good luck. Sending P&PT's your way. (((hugs))) jan



 

 


 



iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
In reply to: cat42066
Tue, 05-31-2005 - 12:06am
Hi Cindy and Welcome!!!

Blessings, Suz   Posts in this Community   

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-21-2004
In reply to: cat42066
Tue, 05-31-2005 - 3:34am

Hi Cindy.
WELCOME! My Name is Shasta. So happy you joined our community.
I too have driving anxieties. Jan & Suz' advice is perfect. They have helped me so much.
When I was working, I was so scared to drive not much more than a mile or two from my home...Then my office was transferred about 20 minutes away, on a very busy freeway.
I was so scared. But I had to get to work.
And you know what?
After the first month, the drive was pretty much a 'no brainer'...meaning that once I started doing it everyday, (I also drove back home on my lunch hour to check in on my 'kitty kids')I didn't even think about the anxiety I had initially felt.
Then one day, I remembered that I 'used to be anxious about driving that far'
It was such a good feeling to know I overcame that anxiety.
I guess the only coping advice I have is to 'Just do it'
I know it is easier said then done, (believe me!) and I am still trying to cope myself, but I do believe in what the girls advice was to you.
Please keep us posted. Thanks for posting. We care! hugs, shasta