[planetoi]

So I'm 19 and I got my G1 (similar to a learner's permit in the US) a little over a year ago. I finally decided that it was time to go to driving school, and since I'm just about finished with the in-class lessons, I'm gonna actually start driving this weekend.

I am so anxious.

Part of the reason I put off driving school for so long was because of my anxiety. I mean, I'm not a bad driver, but for some reason I still get really nervous when I drive. I'm also afraid my driving teacher will yell and freak out when I make mistakes, which just makes me even worse. I went through that with my mom when I first started driving and I didn't get behind the wheel of a car for nearly 8 months because of it.

On top of the driving nervousness, I also have social anxiety. As if I wasn't scared enough, I now have to sit in the car for two hours with a complete stranger which should be all kinds of fun. I just spoke to him on the phone (which was bad enough because I also have phone anxiety) and he doesn't seem very friendly. He kept getting mad because I couldn't hear him because he has a thick accent and kept mumbling. He also wasn't very accommodating. I told him my address and he kept saying "I don't know where that is. Where is it? Describe it to me." So I would try and he'd be like "no I still don't know where you live." Like, what do you want me to do, move so that you can find my house?

Ughh. I'm so nervous. I feel sick to my stomach just thinking about it...I can't eat, I can't sleep, I can't concentrate. What should I do? I can't back out, I have to do it.

Anyone been through something similar, or think they can help?

[ManOfConstantSorrow]

I went through that with my mom when I first started driving - so did I - she clung to the seat and dashboard and winced and tutted. At least it was my own car, a very decrepit Renault where a few more dents meant little.

First driving instructor was a dork, but the seconds was good.

Perhaps you could get your own car so you get used to it driving round with a friend (to stay legal), and jack in nasty instructors for one who knows how to treat you.