How to Get Over Fear of Driving

Among the many effects of anxiety related conditions is the fear of driving. For many people living in areas where getting to and from work, running errands and visiting friends and family depends on the use of a vehicle, finding an effective means to get over fear of driving is a necessity. If you are one of the many people for whom getting behind the wheel is a cause for panic, there are ways to overcome your fear and get back on the road.

Find the Cause of Your Fear

In order to get over fear of driving it is important to first understand why you have developed this fear in the first place. For some people the fear may be the result of a traumatic incident, usually a car accident whether they were in the accident or it involved a loved one. For others, the fear may be part of an anxiety disorder or even a symptom of full on agoraphobia in which people become fearful of leaving home.

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It is possible to get over fear of driving no matter what the cause, but those facing a fear developed from trauma may require a different sort of approach from those with an overall anxiety problem. If you are trying to get over fear of driving that is the result of an accident, time and counseling are probably your best approach. For those facing panic or anxiety disorders, an overall treatment approach that deals with all aspects of the anxiety is required.

Taking Small Steps

Although the therapy approach to different sources of driving fear may differ, there are some things that can work no matter why have developed your fear. In order to get over fear of driving, you need to start with small steps. This approach works for many different fears and can be incredibly effective when done correctly.

Start by simply opening the car door. Then close it and walk away. After you have done this a few times, start getting into the car. Then start the car. When this is comfortable, put it in gear and back out of your driveway – pull right back in. Next try driving down your street and back. Take each step slowly and repeat it as many times as necessary in order to become comfortable with it. Remember that you will not get over fear of driving overnight! It will take time, baby steps, and practice. Once you start to see success and can drive short distances without fear, you will find that longer and longer distances become possible.

Of course, therapy and counseling can go a long way towards helping you to overcome your fears by delving into the reasons for the fear and helping you to find solutions. By coming to terms with whatever caused you to develop the fear of driving, you can start to accept the irrationality of your fear and find rational ways to put it behind you.

As with any fear, getting over fear of driving requires dedication and time. Remember that there will be setbacks, and do not let them get you down! Every small step towards overcoming your fear is a victory, and even the setbacks provide a valuable lesson. With time and a desire to be free of your fear, you can get back on the road and back to your life without fear.

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