Can't drive alone

[RonnieA]

I've had anxiety with panic disorder for 11 years this July.

I wasn't diagnosed for about 4 years. So in this time, I lost my confidence with driving because I had no idea what was wrong with me!

I still to this day, can't drive further than around the block by myself & can't drive anywhere too far with someone else unless they know all about my anxiety.

My fear is not being close to my 'safe place' and/or no quick escape if I start to panic!

Does anyone have similar symptoms?? Anyone know any helpful tips??

[Chris_B]

Hi RonnieA, welcome to the forums. I'd recommend having a look at this thread from one of our other members who went through a similar experience - should provide some good tips for you:

First step to a positive future

[Neil_1]

Hi there Ronnie

Welcome to Beyond Blue and thank you for providing your post.

That’s a long time to be living with and battling what you’ve posted about.

I’m just wondering, what kinds of support have you got happening for yourself?

Ie: GP appointments, or perhaps counselling of some sort? Any medications that you may be on to help with your disorder?

The confidence with driving is, as you can imagine, a very important one – but firstly, I would congratulate you for being able to drive. Ok, so it’s not far, etc but that is something to acknowledge that you’ve done and are able to do.

When you mention that you cannot drive too far with someone, unless they know about your background – does this mean, that if you have someone with you who does know, you are able to drive that bit further? If this is the case, how do you feel when doing this?

I guess one last comment is that, with where you are situated, is driving a major thing for you or are you able to cope and get by with using public transport?

Thank you for your post and I would love to hear back from you.

Neil