Vehicle Anxiety

Does anyone else get panic attacks/anxious while in vehicles? I did when I first started to have panic attacks near the end of 2005. I wouldn't get into a car for weeks when I was having those attacks. I eventually got over it and was able to get into cars again.

But now it's coming back. At first, as long as I could distract myself with my phone or a book, I'd be ok. But now, it seems to be getting worse, particularly on buses. I had to take two buses to a friends house and on getting there and coming back, I got off much earlier than you should have (10 minute walk instead of across her street, and at my neighborhood grocery store, about 15 minutes rather than a block from my house). I even was sitting/standing on the bus...almost kneeling on the sit. I didn't even care if other people were watching and judging me.

It should also be noted that when I get highly anxious, I feel the nervousness in my bladder. Even if I've used the bathroom and not have had something to drink for a few hours. At that time, that's all I want to do. So, when I'm on the bus or in the car, all I want to do is go to a toilet. But then, I get off the bus and I don't have to go because the anxiety from the bus/car is gone.

Even though I've beaten this before, I forget how I did it.

Anyone else ever get anxious in this type of situation?

Hi

Yes I can relate on this one. I failed my driving test 4 times because I was just two anxious driving and I still find it difficult today especially driving at night time so I try to avoid that. I now a few members here who also have anxiety when driving so you are not alone on that one.

Hibee

Amy,

My daughter has the "pee thing"  when she is anxious.  I know if she has to see the Dr. for a procedure she will be off to the bathroom several times while waiting for her appointment and then right before the procedure she will ask the Dr. if it is ok for her to run to the bathroom.  Many people have this problem when they are in a anxious state so you are not alone.

I am wondering if perhaps you get a bit claustrophic when you are inside a vehicle of transportation.  Your fear may be of feeling closed in. The good news is that claustrophobia is very treatable.

Behavior therapy includes identifying trigger points and recognizing that one's reactions to these triggers are learned instead of natural; through visualization and practicing being in small spaces, the individual learns to disassociate feelings of danger with the confined space.

Do try to remember what worked for you in the past and bring out all the tools you have to help you get past your fears.

Kindly,

Kitt

 

Hmmm...it might be a claustrophobia thing, I'm not really sure. I was ok today with my grandfather in his car, but it was only for 10 minutes.

I also can't afford a car and my parents never had one. So that's another reason why I don't drive.

It's nice knowing I'm not alone with this particular symptom. :)

Just to update: I got on a bus today! My brother was with me so that was a help. I was very much awaiting the stop as we got closer to it. I also took a cab which wasn't as easy. I'm doing better being in a car but it's no where near what I should be. But it's getting there.