Overcoming Driving Anxiety: Practical Tips and Strategies
Episode Overview
Driving anxiety is often about the fear of feeling anxious, not the act of driving itself. Start small with exposure therapy, like holding your car keys or sitting in your driveway. Interoceptive and imaginal exposures can help manage symptoms without driving. Pulling over or listening to music while driving isn't necessarily avoidance. Professional help can be valuable in developing an effective exposure plan.
It's the feeling that's the exposure. The driving is just the trigger.
Feeling anxious behind the wheel? You're not alone. In this episode of The Anxious Truth, Drew Linsalata, a therapist and former anxiety sufferer, takes a deep dive into driving anxiety and how to tackle it using exposure therapy. Drew challenges common misconceptions, explaining that the real exposure is to the feeling of anxiety itself, not the act of driving.
He breaks down various fears associated with driving, from the fear of losing control to the dread of panicking in front of others. Drew offers practical advice on how to start small, like holding your car keys or sitting in your driveway, and gradually work your way up. He also discusses interoceptive and imaginal exposures as effective tools for managing symptoms without even getting into your car.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed by driving anxiety, this episode is packed with strategies and insights to help you regain your confidence on the road. Drew's approach is compassionate and grounded in his own experiences, making it a must-listen for anyone struggling with this common issue. So, why not give it a go? You might just find the encouragement you need to take that first step toward overcoming your driving anxiety.