Doesn't there have to be a "lightbulb moment"

[Serinus]

I have been working away at my driving panic attacks, and the gradual "exposure" approach IS working, but .... doesn't there HAVE to be a "lightbulb moment" at some point, when I simply stop fearing driving (after I've been a good little girl and put in my lessons and miles, lol!) Or at least, a transfer of mindset of confidence from one route to another?

I did one route 12 times - and I'm not afraid of it any more. But I can't do EVERY route 12 times. And my goal is to be able to drive for 2 or more hours on freeways to parks and refuges I want to visit.

Advice or experiences in how the fear of driving ebbs is welcome!

[DodgeDhanda]

Metaphorically speaking yes there is a light bulb moment & a clue ..... U are the bulb

[Mamatired]

Hi. I have driving anxiety and flashbacks and I will say that sometimes yes you will have to drive multiple times on the same road but after some time, this will lessen. So this month it may be 12 but the next month it could be 1 or 2. Then there’ll be a trigger and it’ll be 5 or 6 and then reduce to 1 or 2. I’m still avoiding highways and it’s been 3+ years for me. It’s a difficult journey but I promise you it is worth it and will get better. I didn’t have a lightbulb moment, I just kept reinforcing in my mind the good things about driving and thinking about the wonder and privilege it is to be able to do so in the first place. Don’t give up serious - a little bit each day goes a long way

[Agora1]

Serinus, Pure and Simple Breathing (when done properly) can subdue anxiety by calming your mind and body. I learned this after I had been Agoraphobic for 5 years. It helped me

get out of the house once more, drive again and go into a big box store that I wanted without running out in fear. Who knew that for me, Breathing technique became the "key" to my success. Good Luck dear xx

[madmanacrossthewater]

hi! i dont have driving anxiety but i do have serious anxiety issues and panic attacks2-3x/day, usually socially based. i am practicing exposure therapy. it doesn't make it go away, it helps me learn to just stick it out and learn that it does go away eventually. i hope that helps...