Anxiety over driving (and other stuff)

[Lost_in_life]

About a week and a half ago I posted about my anxieties over driving on the highway and leaving my cat for an extended period. Well, I "cratered" on my fear of driving on the highway. I'm, more than likely, going to ride with the rest of my family to the beach. I can't even get myself to make a short drive down the highway to "expose" myself.

Both my therapist and I decided that I have such a short period of time to get myself to a state where I can get back on the highway. Still though, I feel really defeated about this. I don't know what I'm going to do when I need to get a new job. It's more than likely going to involve driving on the highway.

And, now, I have to get over (or just deal with) my anxiety over leaving my cat for a week. I have people looking in on her twice a day... but I'm obsessing over the idea that the house will be burglarized and she'll get out. I'm terrified that something horrible will happen to her.

I just don't know how to get over these anxieties/fears/phobias/obsessions!

[Jeff1943]

How many idiots do you know who drive? If they can drive then so can you because you are no idiot.

Norman Vincent Peele the American philosopher said: "Do what you fear and the death of fear is assured." Have I said that before? Probably but the oftener said the truer it becomes.

Your cat will be fine in your absence. We leave ours for a week several times a year, a neighbour comes in to feed him. Cats are important but you can't let what you see as the cat's interests to rule your life.

Only one thing to do, Lost_in_Life, get in your car and drive. You will be safe enough, those idiots can drive a car remember so why not you? Do it again and again. Take a small dose of xanax or diazepam to begin with if you have them.

You see, you're as good and safe a driver as anyone. But your anxiety exaggerates ten fold the natural concern we all have when driving. It's just magnified in your case because of your anxiety disorder, you're no more at risk than anyone else. Including those idiots you know who think nothing of jumping into their cars and driving off up the highway.

Every time you go for a drive it will be a little easier as your confidence returns. Do not let enhanced anxiety immobilise you. Stand up for your freedom of movement. All will be well, short drives to begin with, longer as you become more self assured. I wish you well.

[NeuronerdDoaty in reply to Jeff1943]

👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[Nom-D-Ploom in reply to NeuronerdDoaty]

That is really good advice, but I would be sure the anxiety meds don't sedate too much before driving with it.

[Nom-D-Ploom]

Maybe keep your mind really busy? I know that will be hard when you are feeling panic.