The joy of Anxiety.

[Cfish0031]

How is everyone doing? I feel like I am progressing somewhat. My anxiety has manifested itself into when I drive. I am not an anxious person outside of that. Anyone relate to this or just wanna talk about their anxiety? I am hoping to become a licensed therapist specifically for anxiety and depression. Would love to chat!

[Rbolty]

I totally relate to the anxiety while I am driving and it sux! Don’t know why it happens . I just breathe and put on chill music and sometimes it works. If it’s raining hard out forget it than it’s worse

[Cfish0031 in reply to Rbolty]

What types of distances does this happen with?

[Rbolty in reply to Cfish0031]

It happens when I drive any distance because I don’t drive on highways or anything. Just my normal route to work or wherever I’m going even locally.

[Cfish0031 in reply to Rbolty]

I completely understand this and I avoid places where I have had panic. The term is Agoraphobia.

[Stephanie_M]

Happens to me as well but when I’m stuck in traffic, if I’m on the move I’m mostly ok. Also after a month of constant attacks I’m free 2 days now. Really enjoyed these couple of days hope I can find more.

[Cfish0031 in reply to Stephanie_M]

That is awesome! What have you done differently?

[morenews]

Well, i feel anxiety in different situations...new things which i have to learn ...and not disappoint myself and/or others. Job is always great source of anxiety for me, now i have a new job and it is tough....I have never satisfied with myself, and it seems to be that people are never satisfied with me. I am trying to overcome that...but it is part of my personality and it is difficult to deal with that. So i am not sure about the "joy"....

[Cfish0031 in reply to morenews]

Sounds like you have a battle within you that you are fighting. I think thats incredibly common. As for the "joy" goes, it was complete sarcasm from my point of view.

[Espinoza38]

I can relate. Once I start driving my anxiety kicks in. But I'm thankful to have a bestfriend that calls me every morning to talk.

[Cfish0031 in reply to Espinoza38]

That is awesome that you have a go to person.

[Espinoza38 in reply to Cfish0031]

Yes and I'm so grateful for her. She may not understand what I go thru but she tries.

[Like_a_Lotus]

This has happened to me in 2013. It came out of nowhere and although I am much better; I still find it difficult especially if it’s a long drive.

[Cfish0031 in reply to Like_a_Lotus]

What did you do to help yourself with this?

[Shark1]

I cannot believe all your posts its like you are in the car with me. Because what you guys are saying is exactly what happens to me. What is going on I used to be a great driver now i am forever with my foot on the brake and its worse on freeways big trucks cars to close to me. Does anyone have any advise. Please

[Cfish0031 in reply to Shark1]

For someone who struggles with it like myself, its all about finding that peace behind the wheel. Whether it be a go to thought that panic cannot harm you, or a song that will relax you, maybe calling a friend to talk to while you are driving to calm you down and realize you aren't alone, things like this to try while you are driving to help.

[MariaLove123]

Omg me too with driving! I used to love it and now I get panicky and frustrated with other drivers. I think it’s awesome you want to be a therapist. You have something to work towards. Anxiety to me, is just hell. My thoughts race and my heart feels like it’s going to explode. When I’m at home with anxiety, I literally just freeze up. I curl up in a ball on the couch. It’s more of a feeling you know? I’m always here to chat. This site literally saves my life everyday.

[Agora1]

Hi Coreyfish03, I was Agoraphobic for 5 years and it was a process in getting back out again into the stores and driving once more. For me, I founding that deep breathing became my companion in keeping me in control. Using deep breathing in the car allowed me to no longer worry about getting stuck at a traffic light or a train stop. It was that effective for me. We all find what works best.

I hope you do go into therapy for anxiety and depression. After having been Agoraphobic, I see a big need for therapists who work on site with the patient both in driving as well as walking out of your comfort zone. I was fortunate at the time that I was able to find 2 therapists who did come to the house to work with me. Just a thought Corey, should you go on to becoming a therapist. Good Luck

[Cfish0031 in reply to Agora1]

That is such an excellent point! Not everyone is comfortable with going to a location to meet with someone but would prefer someone to come to them. I understand that completely and I hope that my experience of going through similar to what you have went through will help others. If you ever need to talk, I am here. Thank you for your kind words.