[VoodooGirl]

I have pretty severe anxiety, but am able to force myself to do most things (like go to work and school). One thing I have not been able to get over; however, is driving. I never took driver's training and have not had my license (I am 24). I have had my permit, but when I get behind the wheel I get intense panic. It is really a major issue for me, holding me back from so much and causing me to be depressed. I was wondering if anyone else has had this issue and what kinds of treatment were the most helpful in overcoming it? Thank you!

[Silent_tsol]

I think driving anxiety is pretty common. Mine came up after an incident that happened after I had been driving comfortably a few years. But it's also situational so I'm able to do things, but sometimes have to take different routes. Do you know what part of driving triggers the anxiety? I think that is the key to figuring out what could help you overcome it. For example, if you are nervous that your reflexes aren't fast enough to respond to something, perhaps getting in-car lessons with a driving instructor, who also has a peddle would help.

[VoodooGirl]

I am not completely sure what the problem is because some of the time I feel like I can do it, but most of the time the thought of it makes me anxious. I think it is all the other people and having them see me driving and the possibility of messing up and either making other people angry with me or getting in an accident. Driving in cars as a passenger also makes me nervous, so it is the whole driving thing. Also, i feel like I have bad depth perception or something so I worry about whether I am driving in the lines or not and how to know where I am on the road.

[SlowMoMo]

I feel exactly the same way. I still don't have my license. I feel the same thing about other people seeing me, and messing up. Plus backing up, I always feel like there is a huge blind spot and it would be so easy to hurt someone! I find vehicles so dangerous. Just sitting in the drivers seat causes me to have super high anxiety. An anxiety attack on the road would be very very dangerous.

[BatsAndButterflies]

It took me a long tome to get my license too. I'm still terrified of driving. I don't want anyone to see me park, because I'm not comfortable with it. I think it will get better with time though and experience.

[ickydog2006]

I'd say exposure therapy is really beneficial for this. I'm really anxious about driving still. But this definitely made it at least possible for me. I avoid driving when I can though.