I'm new here, this is my first post. I've spent a little time reading the forums and can see I'm likely to get more replies here - be kind!
Im currently learning to drive and really struggling with the levels of anxiety I feel building up to lessons. During a typical lesson I shake, sweat, get pins and needles and dizziness and sometimes a sense of unreality, my heart thumps and I get butterflies in my stomach. Afterwards I can hardly get out of the car, my legs are like jelly! I've never suffered from panic attacks before, but I'm guessing the above symptoms may be similar to a mild one?
I'm told I'm a very good driver, but I know the fear I feel hinders my progress so much, I make stupid mistakes and honestly wouldn't consider driving in this state even if I do (somehow!) manage to pass my test. I simply wouldn't wish to put anyone at risk. My problem is that I'm under quite a lot of pressure to pass my test, from my DH, for work, plus I have two small DC's and would love to be able to take them out and give them the days out and adventures they deserve.
I know that my vehophobia (?) stems from having an awful instructor when I was much younger. He was a complete pervert who always had his hand on my thigh, making suggestive comments etc and I was to young and stupid to ever stand up to him/report him for his behaviour. I just kept going to lessons and taking the abuse until I was in too much of a state to function! These days I'm older and wiser and certainly wouldn't take the same kind of crap from anyone, but I'm afraid it's stayed with me, despite having a lovely, understanding female instructor - I still feel the same level of panic that I used to. It's totally irrational, yet out of my control.
I've started to think that some kind of therapy and/or medication might help me deal with the anxiety, I've done a little research and booked an appointment with my GP for next week. I guess I'm just wondering if anyone here has had a similar experience, doesn't have to be related to driving - panic attacks, anxiety, phobias etc that you've been treated for and if you've managed to overcome it? Particularly interested in medication (I have this romantic vision that I'll be able to pop a little magic pill before a lesson and it will make all the nasty fear go away.... I know, I know!)
Sorry for the essay... AIBU to ask about your experiences here?
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AIBU?
to have a phobia of driving and wonder if it can be cured?
36 replies
LastTrainHome · 17/06/2011 18:51
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