Driving phobia is what one might call the poor second cousin among the phobias. It is constantly outshined by more famous brethren such as arachnophobia and claustrophobia, and doesn't even have its own Latin name. However, panic attacks behind the wheel are a whole lot more deadly to the patient and others, as compared to the terror of an up-close encounter with a spider or being stuck in a lift.
In order to overcome this disorder, it is important to understand the nature of the beast. Take a look at the symptoms, causes and possible treatments outlined below. Panicked drivers can be classified under two categories, depending on the nature of the trigger. A person who has suffered in a prior accident has a legitimate reason to panic, and the PTSD symptoms can pop up when facing similar situations again.
There is also the general fear of not being able to control the vehicle and/or getting hurt in an accident. The main triggers for such incidents are usually stress and heavy traffic. The phobia then becomes self-fulfilling under such conditions, as the fear and loss of concentration causes the driver to lose control.
Passengers may suffer from a fear of getting hurt in an accident if they get into a car. Pedestrians can likewise be afraid of being on sidewalks close to heavy traffic, or crossing at an intersection. Some people have a fear of speeds (regardless of the type of vehicle), which is much more inconvenient considering that it prohibits just about any and all kinds of travel.
The way these fears manifest themselves physically is very much the same in all these cases. There will be heavy sweating and uncontrollable trembling and shaking. Unsteady and slippery hands will be accompanied by blurred vision caused by sweat and fear. The result is loss of control of the vehicle and an inability to focus on the road. The chances of an accident are now very real, so panic sets in with an accelerated pulse. The patient is unable to think clearly or take any evasive action.
Physicians can prescribe medication to suppress many of these symptoms and prevent frequent panic attacks. But the only permanent cure for this psychological illness is therapy. The driver suffering from PTSD is an exception, and needs a combination of medication and therapy sessions. The rest of the cases can for the most part be cured using only behavioral therapy.
Some sessions with a driving expert may also be useful. It will help drivers overcome their fears and develop a better and more relaxed driving technique that is less prone to accidents and stress. A change of environment, such as giving up a job that requires a stressful daily commute through heavy traffic, can also produce quick results.
Anyone suffering from driving phobia must realize that it is a serious and recognized disease, similar to alcoholism or obesity. Do not try to hide or ignore the symptoms, because supportive family and friends will be able to help in many ways. The first step in finding a cure for this affliction is to acknowledge its existence and seek help.
In order to overcome this disorder, it is important to understand the nature of the beast. Take a look at the symptoms, causes and possible treatments outlined below. Panicked drivers can be classified under two categories, depending on the nature of the trigger. A person who has suffered in a prior accident has a legitimate reason to panic, and the PTSD symptoms can pop up when facing similar situations again.
There is also the general fear of not being able to control the vehicle and/or getting hurt in an accident. The main triggers for such incidents are usually stress and heavy traffic. The phobia then becomes self-fulfilling under such conditions, as the fear and loss of concentration causes the driver to lose control.
Passengers may suffer from a fear of getting hurt in an accident if they get into a car. Pedestrians can likewise be afraid of being on sidewalks close to heavy traffic, or crossing at an intersection. Some people have a fear of speeds (regardless of the type of vehicle), which is much more inconvenient considering that it prohibits just about any and all kinds of travel.
The way these fears manifest themselves physically is very much the same in all these cases. There will be heavy sweating and uncontrollable trembling and shaking. Unsteady and slippery hands will be accompanied by blurred vision caused by sweat and fear. The result is loss of control of the vehicle and an inability to focus on the road. The chances of an accident are now very real, so panic sets in with an accelerated pulse. The patient is unable to think clearly or take any evasive action.
Physicians can prescribe medication to suppress many of these symptoms and prevent frequent panic attacks. But the only permanent cure for this psychological illness is therapy. The driver suffering from PTSD is an exception, and needs a combination of medication and therapy sessions. The rest of the cases can for the most part be cured using only behavioral therapy.
Some sessions with a driving expert may also be useful. It will help drivers overcome their fears and develop a better and more relaxed driving technique that is less prone to accidents and stress. A change of environment, such as giving up a job that requires a stressful daily commute through heavy traffic, can also produce quick results.
Anyone suffering from driving phobia must realize that it is a serious and recognized disease, similar to alcoholism or obesity. Do not try to hide or ignore the symptoms, because supportive family and friends will be able to help in many ways. The first step in finding a cure for this affliction is to acknowledge its existence and seek help.
About the Author:
Read more about Driving Phobia Symptoms, Causes And Remedies visiting our website.
No comments:
Post a Comment