PTSD post car crash. I've just booked driving lessons. Can I have a hand hold?

[MrsAvocet]

I haven't driven a car for a years. Last time I was behind the wheel I suffered life changing injuries in a crash that wasn't my fault. The intervening time has been horrid on a number of levels. I eventually got diagnosed with PTSD and received psychological help and was making good progress. I had improved to the point that I was on a waiting list for refresher driving lessons. Then Covid -19 happened and both my therapy and driving got put on hold. But the driving school called today. They are open again and do I want to start next week. I've said yes but now unsure I've done the right thing. Left a message on my therapist's answerphone. Hopefully I will get a call back soon. Feeling quite anxious now. It doesn't make sense really. I've ridden my bike on roads since then, which I know is more dangerous really. But then PTSD doesn't make sense.
Just wondered if anyone has been in a similar situation or if anyone has any words of encouragement or advice?

Tell your instructor and ask to take things slowly. DH is an instructor & had a similar pupil. The first lesson he did cockpit drill, starting the car, going through the gearbox etc without any act driving. He built up from there and took his pupil's cues. He's a confident driver now ( DH still sometimes sees him out and about). Good luck!

Thanks. Its good to hear that other people have overcome this kind of thing. I had quite a good chat with the instructor when she phoned and she seems like a nice understanding person. She says she has had other pupils with similar issues before so hopefully will be ok. Had a bit of a panic this afternoon when I couldn't find my driving licence but found it eventually and it is still in date thank goodness! DH drove me to the shops earlier though and I was back to being a bit of a nightmare passenger, which I had more or less stopped. I suppose its to be expected though. Last time I was driving a car I thought I was going to die. I'm hardly going to jump back in as if nothing ever happened, no matter how much therapy I have. It is time to bite the bullet.

Take it easy, don't retraumatise yourself in the process. Baby steps are just fine.

I went through something similar 7 years ago now and I still freak out if I am in the front seat of a car and I only allowed four or five people to drive me (the accident left me with injuries that mean I am unable to drive).

Look after yourself and good luck.

I am sorry to hear that FlameFartingDragon. I am going to have to swap to an automatic which is an additional stress but at least I am physically able to drive, so it could be worse.
I am having the lessons a little way away from where I live so the roads won't be familiar which is also a bit of a worry, but there's nobody who teaches in an automatic nearby. That said, the incident occured close to home so it is perhaps a good thing that I won't be starting on the local roads. I have managed to pass the site as a passenger, but only going in the opposite direction and that was bad enough.I doubt I will ever drive down that road again.
Sorry to hear you are still suffering.