When a person undergoes a very traumatizing event like a road accident, incident or just do not feel comfortable about the roads, they will most likely associate their future driving with such an event. Humans always have a tendency to get irrational feelings in particular situations and such a scenario is one of them. This may lead to fear of driving, often referred to as driving phobia. There are so many drivers on our roads who suffer from this condition, if you are a sufferer do not think that you are the only one. This fear is basically an emotional or imaginative manifestation in the mind that the mind believes it is real. The body then switches to “fight or flight” mode, hence the symptoms.

Some of the most common symptoms of this condition include experiencing extreme fear, rapid heartbeat, intense breathing, pain in the stomach and chest, the feeling of death, fear of losing control, hyperventilation, feeling dizzy or faint and tunnel vision among others. If this condition is not treated in good time, it can completely ruin the patient’s life including social and professional life since they will live under constant fear and have to rely on public or others for transport. The sooner this condition is treated the better since it gets worse with time.

The best way to treat mild states of the fear of driving is through self-help techniques that involve mastering courage, confidence and getting rid of stress. This can be achieved through visualization, meditation and relaxation exercises like tai-chi and yoga. Medical remedies are not effective since they only address the symptoms rather than the actual problem. For severe cases of fear of driving, there are professional ways to treat this condition including hypnosis and cognitive behavioral therapy. The important thing is that the fear of driving is treatable, it is important that it be addressed as soon as possible.