Fast roads/motorways - panic attacks - Anxiety Support

Anxiety Support

53,418 members49,316 posts

Fast roads/motorways - panic attacks

Lisa1265 profile image
1 Reply

Hi, I've read a lot of the posts on panic attacks while driving in motorways and fast roads BUT when I experience a panic attack in this situation, I have to drive as close to the white lines as possible; it's like I'm being 'pulled' to the side of the road. I also feel I'm off balance, and fidget and lean forward.

I usually avoid the types of roads that cause it but I've just moved 200 miles from home, so have to conquer this ASAP.

It's a problem I've had for 30+ years, with occasional respite. I recently had hypnosis to try and sort it - and I did manage to drive myself all the way up from Brighton to Nottingham, but yesterday I had a major attack on a 'ring road', and now can't see a way to overcome it. Panic I can try and manage through breathing. It's the awful need to get as far to the left as possible I can't cope with - it turns me into s dangerous driver, which I'm not.

PLEASE HELP!

Written by
Lisa1265 profile image
Lisa1265
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
1 Reply
Anxietyfree profile image
Anxietyfree

Hi Lisa

I had a period of having ng panic attacks on motorways but let me tell you it didnt stop me driving the 500 odd miles to see my fella.

I used to find traffic jams hard especially in the hot weather. Now i if i get a niggle I smile and let it go.

I found asking myself if the panic was serving me or stopping me. Of course it was stopping me so along came the determination and self-compassion. I soothed myself aswell as encouraged myself that I was ok and that I COULD do this. Calming breathing and perhaps some gentle music helped me through too. Hope this helps.x

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Panic Attacks

I'm having panic attack almost everyday of the week now, I drink bottles of water everyday to calm...

Buspar.. multiple panic attacks

So idk what had happened the past 3 or 4 days but my panic attacks have gotten so bad! Literally...

Panic attacks

Hi if anyone's awake please could you help me or just offer a few words of encouragement I've just...

Panic Attacks

Since being diagnosed with SAD 7 years ago, I can’t sit in a movie theatre without the start of a...

Mild panic attacks?

Is it possible to experience mild panic attacks? Do panic attacks come in different forms I have...