If you are someone who experiences panic attacks while driving, it can be very difficult to get a grip on. Driving is one of the most common ways people get around, but panic attacks while driving can be a real detriment to your well being. The good news is that it can be fixed. Here is what you need to do.
Distracting yourself One of the main causes of panic attacks while driving is simply focusing too much on the symptoms. If you are used to listening to the radio, hearing podcasts, or other media while you drive, listening to something else can actually help you distract yourself from your distressing thoughts. If you suffer from anxiety or some other mental illness, listening to soothing music can also help you cope with overwhelming distressing feelings and fears, and stop panic attacks from happening. There are many different types of CDs available that will allow you to do this. Many times you can listen to these CDs while you're still in your car and have your episodes while you're driving to work, or even while you're relaxing at home.
Genes A panic attack while driving symptom can be caused by a genetic predisposition to anxiety disorder or stress disorder. Certain genes are more prone to anxiety disorders and stress disorder than others. In some cases, your parents may have had symptoms to deal with. Your doctor can run a gene test to determine if you have a genetic predisposition for either anxiety disorder or stress disorder.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy This type of therapy focuses on changing your thought processes and behavioral patterns. Basically, you'll be taught how to think differently in order to overcome the physical symptoms. It is important that you remember that these cognitive behavioral therapy treatments will not cure you. You must commit to treatment if you want to see results. Unfortunately, 90% of people who suffer panic attacks while driving do not seek treatment. If this sounds like you, then consider CBT.
Breathing Techniques You may be experiencing physical symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, and increased heart rate, but you probably aren't aware of the physical symptoms. Think about what's causing each of these symptoms. Are they due to stress, anxiety, or panic? Most often the underlying cause is breathing difficulties. People who are afraid of flying, or who have a fear of cave-like scenes, will experience symptoms of both anxiety and fear when they begin to breathe normally. If you aren't breathing properly, then you will experience shortness of breath, increased heart rate, and the fear of dying.
Self-Esteem One of the biggest factors in dealing with panic attack symptoms is developing self-esteem. If you lack self-esteem, then you will feel more threatened and self-conscious. When you feel threatened or inferior, then it is much harder for you to deal with your symptoms, and you might resort to acting out in order to escape the feeling. However, if you feel superior, then it is much easier for you to avoid your panic attacks while driving. You will also be more confident because you feel that you are in control.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT is a form of psychological treatment that involves gradually replacing your negative beliefs about yourself and others with more positive beliefs. Once you replace all of your negative beliefs with positive ones, then you can face your fear head-on. This type of therapy is the fastest way to treat anxiety and panic disorders.
Genetics There is no guaranteed way to determine if you will have anxiety disorders or panic attacks while driving. Some people have a higher risk of having these disorders than others do. The faster you can determine what your genetic predisposition is, the sooner you will be able to treat it. If your predisposition for anxiety disorders or panic attacks while driving is unknown, then you need to find out what your triggers are and figure out ways to manage those triggers. Once you have determined your triggers, then you can start to find ways to deal with them so that you don't have to experience any of these disorders.
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