How to Face a Driving Phobia with Exposure Therapy

Clinical psychologist Chris Mackey helps television presenter Angie Hilton to confront her driving phobia using exposure therapy on Victoria's Great Ocean Road. Angie faces her fears and takes on a situation that has previously caused her severe anxiety. Driving on the Great Ocean Road.
Chris also has a podcast on this topic available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealin...
This clip was taken from series 2, episode 4 of Destination Happiness.
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Related Articles:
Dealing with Panic - www.chrismackey.com.au/dealin...
Addressing Avoidant Tendancies - www.chrismackey.com.au/addres...
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For more from psychologist Chris Mackey:
Resources - www.chrismackey.com.au/resour...
Clinical Handouts - www.chrismackey.com.au/tag/cl...
Videos - www.chrismackey.com.au/resour...
Blog - www.chrismackey.com.au/resour...
Our Research - www.chrismackey.com.au/resour...
Podcast - www.chrismackey.com.au/podcast
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For more from Destination Happiness:
Catch up on the latest episodes - www.9now.com.au/destination-h...
Website and mailing list - destinationhappiness.com/
Facebook - / destinationhappiness1

[@TheSasharocker]

I cried watching this because I totally understand what she's going through. I have an irrational fear towards driving and I keep telling myself all these ridiculous excuses...Don't know what to do...

[@hannahtellez7702]

SAME. and i tell my mom and seem to understand that it’s irrational but yet the anxiety wont leave

[@TheRodriguezFam14]

It sucks having kids and not being able to do all the things I want because I can't just be like hey boys get ready we're guna go here or there real quick..its also something I've argued with my husband over. I just don't know what to do. I'm 31😑

[@TheSasharocker]

@@TheRodriguezFam14 i don’t know what your situation is, but i think having your own car to drive would help. I cannot afford one at the moment, but as soon as i get the chance i will force myself into the whole driving experience. Once you make the investment and pay insurance, that will trigger the extra pressure we need. We can do this 😭

[@TheSasharocker]

@@hannahtellez7702 i have been having rescue remedy and it’s helping a tiny bit…

[@Hollysays]

Same here. I’m 51 and have been driving most of my life with no issues. Then a few years ago, for no reason, I’ve developed this horrible anxiety towards driving and even riding in a car and it has made my world very small.

[@0700andrea]

This used to be me! I got my license about a month ago and I’ve been driving a couple of times a week. I still get anxious every time. My hands start sweating, my heart beats fast, I have trouble sleeping the day before knowing I’ll have to drive… but I’m driving and that’s something I never thought I’d be able to do. I know it will get better :)

[@tuliptown9058]

I feel you

[@dilshandilshan4983]

Me too 😢

[@rachelt.2872]

how are you doing now if u don’t mind me asking?

[@madhilama]

Omg the out of body feeling is crazy. I feel like I'm completely in my head, and my body is just floating in the car, that sensation causes me to freak out.

[@anapuello5444]

I suffered from this and it frustrates me that many people don’t understand this exist and is hard to overcome .. just by having a dream driving I wake up with anxiety.. just watching videos about learning how to drive makes my heart go so fast.. I’m embarrassed by it cause people laugh when you say it and I don’t know what to do to change how I feel… it really affects me emotionally cause people are cruel

[@carolyneblessings7794]

I went in one of driving school,here in our country..we were four of us.,they were almost finishing their driving cause in driving,and for me it was my first time.,i felt so intimidated when i was told by our instructor to drive,i actually didn't know where to start from,they were all laughing at me, including the instructor instead of understanding its my first time,i felt so bad..i had paid for my classes but from that day haven't gone back to driving school,...

[@bliss365]

I feel the same way

[@kellytapley9525]

Same here 😔

[@lucysmith1026]

I understand and empathize... Sometimes not sharing it helped because I never wanted to be judged… but to find a safe space to open up feels one step closer to freedom so thank you for sharing your feelings

[@rumeyha21]

I totally understand you, I'm suffering from this too. My instructor asks me if I'm deaf or I have handicap because I get numb when I drive, I'm scared of what idk but I am just scared

[@Rubycon99]

I find myself having after-the-fact anxiety about freeway driving. Like, I get through it fine but then afterwards I dwell on it and feel like it was only through luck that I didn't crash or hit someone. When I express this to someone I was driving with they always seem puzzled and tell me that I seemed perfectly fine.

[@hannahtellez7702]

SAME OMG I THOUGHT I WAS THE ONLY ONE

[@o0294]

Yea this was is me….. but here me out, I feel fine on freeways for some reason but turning while doing 60 is like fuckkkkkkkkkk I’m gonna die

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Rubycon, Thanks for sharing your experience! There is some information in a recent podcast that Chris has done on the topic that you may be interested in, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video and some of it relates to reflecting on your experience afterwards.

[@hermanklump8983]

I have the same anxiety.

[@parkjimin-yy8xd]

Samee😢😢

[@jaylacy9912]

I thought I was the only one that have highway phobia!! It’s scary and I just thought I was alone😱😱

[@chrismackey3566]

It is one of the more common phobias. You are certainly not alone.

[@MikeyBee-]

I’m a fully grown ex fb playing man, and I have this same phobia

[@Porchacaprice]

Me too. Wow

[@rachelvillalobos7343]

It definitely is not ridiculous. I did not get my drivers license until I was 37 years old. I am now 53 years old and I still refuse to drive on any highway. Anxiety is just way too much for me. You are not alone.

[@sailingseaofstars]

I started driving around 29 and got my license a few years later. I tri3d getting on the freeway and hated the loops especially beltways which were higher up and mor3 angled I kept feeling like I would fall off or pull the wheel off because of my tight grip. I tried a few times and when i followed someone i se3med to do better unl3ss they excelersted to fast and i lost them. I had some cloae calls with p3ople cutting me off and stopped doing it. I mostly have rarely go5 back in but i need to for work. I am able to do small.over passes but still don't like bridges. I am.not sure if its something from.child.hood. i used to have nihhtmatrs about being on a space age freeway tjay was empty

[@thatolekalakala6162]

I'm tearing up myself watching this video too...just finished a driving lesson and my instructor keeps saying relax, don't panic😭😭😭

[@melissar3733]

My fear causes insane depersonalization, my brain hates that there’s cars behind me or speeding past. I have to move mirrors out of sight and focus on what in front of me. The freeway was something I used to love and one stupid panic attack and a couple years without a car & I have never been able to fully recover. I am dying to go on trips again, not feel overwhelmed with claustrophobia and the feeling that I’m out of my body. Clearly I’m broken. Would LOVE a case of amnesia. To forget my freeway anxiety. It’s ruining my experiences, my zest for life. It is a mental cage. I’ve done it all, nothing lasts I always regress and progress staggering between the same few steps.

[@jlow477]

I’m going through this too.Its a crippling feeling not being able to do something that was once so natural and we enjoyed

[@allier.9193]

I haven’t driven on the freeway in 5 years :(

[@Wild_Cat]

I know exactly how you are feeling and you described it very well, there is hope for us and we can overcome it, trust me

[@philipholding]

When I did my MSc in dissociation, both panic, coupled with depersonalisation, was prominent. Made a link through research between aggrophobia and depersonalisation, too. It's the context and stress situation that triggers it, but it can be overcome. I suffered with it for a while, and I'm a (now retired), NHS psychotherapist. You are not alone.

[@learningpeace9788]

I'm SO proud of you. I know how debilitating driving anxiety can be. Thank you for showing the process of actually doing the therapy yourself and filming it! It really helps!

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Thank you for your encouragement! If you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video.

[@learningpeace9788]

@@chrismackeypsychology6775 I will check it out, thank you!!

[@Wild_Cat]

This made me tear up because I know what she's going through, I still have to overcome my fear... wish me luck all I know I can overcome it!

[@monicanixdesigns]

I've gotten to the point where I call my dad in the morning to drive to work and my sis in evening to drive home...but I do it.m.baby steps..its knowing it doesn't control u and isn't harmful...ur mind creates the harm and panic but just know u will overcome..its been 20 years for me and im finally driving again..phone calls or not .im doing it ♡♡♡

[@chrismackey3566]

Good on you, Monica. Great effort!

[@error404yeah4]

I feel all the symptoms

[@SalmanMalik-eo8uo]

Good on you, mam! Reading your comment has given me a lot of courage as well. Props to you.

[@SongofaBeach2012]

That's great, it does help to have those support people you can call on. Keep trying and overcoming!

[@chrismel1986]

watching videos like this to get back my confidence after i had a car accident. 😢

[@latanyaclark2376]

This is encouraging. I have a friend that lives just a couple of hours away and I desire to visit him. I want to overcome my fear of Highway driving!! Desperate to overcome!!

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi LaTanya, Thank you for being brave and sharing your experience! If you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video. All the best in visiting your friend!

[@erroliandsouza1826]

This is exactly what I am going through. People do not understand when I say this. I have been under medications but fear of heights is still with in Me. I just want to live a normal life. I want this phase to pass soon. So I can drive like before, I can climb heights like before.

[@bcateriosis4114]

yea same

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Errol, Thank you for bravely sharing your experience. If you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video.

[@earthtozaya468]

Wow. I am shocked that this woman exactly described my form of driving anxiety. I have no issue on regular highways or in the city, but the minute I see a narrow (long) bridge, a steep incline/decline or a steep drop off on the right of me I absolutely panic. I have googled this for a long time and have never heard of anyone having a combined fear of heights with driving anxiety. It has recently occurred to me I need to seek help for this.

[@pksheeba]

Height and driving phobia , deadly combo ! Ask me about it

[@kathyb72]

I have this same problem for the last couple years. I'm fine around town on surface streets. The moment I see an overpass or bridge, or any steep incline, I start to panic. I want to figure it out. Its really becoming a problem. I'm going to therapy, and we've discussed it, but aren't having any real breakthroughs. I just want to get back to normal.

[@mom5024]

same here

[@beautygirl842]

I’m oppsoite I can’t do highways

[@patsyyyfranzferd3789]

I have this exact fear it is debilitating. There is a very steep road which is full off fast traffic, I need to pull over every few bits just to get through it, im am physically and mentally exhausted and then I still need to get myself home so I will drive backstreets bc I cant be with cars zooming past. I also have a severe fear of staying in the middle lane I always visualise my car being crushed by either side, driving fears are like living with constant sense of dread. Ive lived w it my whole adult life. No one understands how soul crushing living like this is. Wish you better driving days:)

[@sayitwithhellhounds]

This lady is so brave.

[@newnengates3764]

I have the biggest fear of driving because of the terrible teaching I’d had with it in the past. I can only wish I had amazing therapy like that

[@bliss365]

Me too

[@heatherallingham7120]

Since a car accident a decade ago, I am terrified of being a passenger in a car. (I can't legally drive) I thought I would expose myself to it regularly, but I find the more I am exposed to being a passenger in a car the WORSE it gets. Telling myself that the fear is irrational doesn't help, and attempts to be calmed make things that much worse. I'm glad she was helped by this exposure. But maybe some people cannot be cured.

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Heather, I'm sorry to hear of your car accident and how it has affected you. If you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Much of the podcast will also relate to being a passenger in a car and I hope that you find it helpful!

[@bliss365]

I'm afraid of all of it. As soon as I even think about driving I get high anxiety. I'm in my 30s and still don't drive went has far as getting my permit but just haven't built the courage to get my license. My last driving instructor bailed. I hate this and it's keeping me from having my own freedom. I'm probably the worse case there is when it comes to driving phobia.

[@theoillady6076]

@@bliss365For freedom put a Lyft or Uber app on your phone if you can. I had to do this for freedom.

[@auadisassyrian3721]

I am a man in this mid 30th and I haven't been able to drive for the last four years due to panic attacks even before driving. If I need to drive next week. I'll spend the whole week thinking about how I am going to drive and checking Google map for the road and where I'll park the car, and what mistakes I would possibly make. I completely giving up on any solution and just living with it and with the continues shame by everyone around me

[@jeppejemmari7840]

I have the same problem, I'm 25 years old and I suffer from panic when I drive on the highway but when I drive in the city I don't panic, have you gotten any help with your problem?

[@shakirasutton9369]

I just hate hearing “she don’t have her license?” 😒😒😒 so annoying I don’t have children and I work at home so driving was on the back burner but I know I wanna be more independent to be Able to up and go when I need or feel like it.

[@matthewwhite1728]

I think because driving is such an integral part of this world that someone having a fear of driving is overlooked.

[@christhomas5761]

I`m so happy for this lady and the progress she`s made so quickly. I developed a phobia of driving on bridges about 10 years ago . Shortly after, I stopped driving on expressways , highways and freeways after I went into a horrible panic attack in the middle of the expressway. I do ok as a passenger as long as we are driving on the street.... So strange that I drove any and everywhere for over thirty years without this problem. I know family and friends think I`m nuts and can`t understand because none of them deal with this serious issue.

[@user-kg3tm7ue1s]

Same here. My phobia happened suddenly after lockdown. Before that I was fine driving 🚗 😌

[@Yazcb]

This is exactly what I have been through. I have a very extreme phobia of driving on bridges, even worse bridges over water (they are basically everywhere as I live in Australia). I stopped driving on highways after a panic attack I had, I couldn't feel my legs and arms, it was horrible and I was by myself.

[@jonpaur2041]

How to repair this problem?

[@soniacain8612]

You were very brave.. Im going to try and take inspiration from you, im happy for you

[@error404yeah4]

@@paolagonzalez2495 TELEGRAM GROUP FOR US TO SUPPORT EACH OTHER: OvercomingDriving

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Sonia, I hope you were able to have a go with driving yourself! If you are still interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video.

[@EveVon83]

I will be 40 this year and I have a drive in a phobia, but I’m going to beat my fear and learn how to drive

[@matthewwhite1728]

Haha I'm 15 and I have the same issue lol

[@LA-lq1zf]

Hi? How are you doing? I’m almost 40 and I’m going to beat it as well.

[@Qqva1l]

This is making be cry because i'm scared... And i have that phobia

[@MineshBaxiYT]

I have not fully conquered it yet

[@chrismackey3566]

@@MineshBaxiYT It's worth approaching it step by step, and especially giving yourself credit and encouragement for your efforts.

[@ponderingeyesO_O]

I’ve seen you in a different video! I hope you’re okay now! If not take it step by step 💜

[@sarar941]

Same. You are not alone

[@rattoota]

Same. Its so terrifying but im finally working on getting over the fear so i can live a normal adult life with the freedom of no longer relying on others for transportation.

[@jeannetterw]

Y'all I can't even get on a bus. Soon to be 41 never even tried to get a licence. No one needs me on the road. Not me, you, or your Mom.

[@dieselandlevimygoofyhuskie9420]

Binocular Vision Dysfunction anxiety, dizziness and tension while driving this is what I have my two eyes are not aligned!!!

[@gbizdiaz3673]

I can completely relate. Close to turning 31 and still don't drive. The worst part is telling people or asking for help gives me so much shame that that it adds to pile of mental barriers.

[@marissamoreno3124]

Going out today to try again I was in an awful car accident as a child my mom was on drugs and drinking when we crashed my sister and I were then placed in the foster care system.....driving is tied to this experience in my life and I'm determined to finally overcome this.

[@monicanixdesigns]

Meee...taking it one day at a time...these videos have helped me ♡

[@chrismackey3566]

That's great to hear that it's been a help!

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Monica, Hopefully you have been able to make lots of progress since you made this comment, but iI thought I would pass this podcast on that Chris has done on the topic. www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video.

[@alifleih]

I'm really proud of you, Angie! Keep it up.

[@victoriahilton62]

Omfg i thought I was the only one with the fear of driving on highways.Everyone of my family think I’m exaggerating and they don’t understand how freaking debilitating it is.

[@Sarah-yj6lf]

HOLY CRAP! Every word she said summed me up, right down to the out-of-body feeling! Every time I look at high drops on anything other than a phone screen, it feels like the floor has dropped out from under me and I'm free falling. I have vivid flashbacks of high places sometimes. It's horrifying. I've been trying for awhile to get the courage to even try exposure therapy.

[@allis_n_wonderland]

Try exposure therapy. You'll start out with very small achievable steps and work towards a goal. It is helpful to combat phobias.

[@Literallyarealhuman]

I started having a lot of panic attacks in my early 20s went on Xanax and completely stopped driving due to the fear and impairment now I’m about to be 30 and I’m terrified of driving, but I know I’m going to have to do it to move forward with my life

[@BassGods]

I had a huge fear of driving on curved highways. I would always think my steering wheel would lock, and keep going straight through the curves. Now I'm pretty much an expert, and drive in the fast lanes, unlike before.

[@LadyT427]

Since my accident on the highway and my car not service correctly and almost losing control of the car on the highway I haven’t been the same since. I truly want to overcome it and just drive the highway with no worries

[@mickyfingaz5132]

God bless all my human family in the comments dealing with this phobia. Bless up

[@AlexConradVlogs]

For the past 3 years I’ve had anxiety attacks in the car, it’s really only when I’m in open space with no trees around I’ve got better at dealing with it but sometimes it’s so bad

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Alex, I'm sorry to hear that you've gone through that! Thanks for sharing with us! If you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video. Hopefully it is of some help to you!

[@thejumpingnomad2485]

Anxiety is a terrible ailment to have. I don't understand driving anxiety but I do have clinical obsessive compulsive disorder and the hell it has caused in my life is no joke. People who don't suffer from irrational fear have no idea. Never mock someone for having anxiety.

[@vsen7]

Well am in India. It gets worst. No one understands my situation, and they think I am just making excuses. But now I want to learn for my son.

[@L-guy]

BRother I'm an awful driver, I'm scared of it, I hate it. I will drive down the highway, asshole clenched and screaming, but nothing is even going wrong. I've never even been in an accident. I just hate it. I hate how angry and rushed everyone is. I wish there was a separate lane where you go as slow as possible

[@hom296]

Mountain driving where there is no guardrail terrifies me. Especially if there are cars in back of me or a lot of cars coming toward me!

[@rubym3915]

My only point of anxiety with driving came when I was pregnant. I just wanted to avoid putting my growing baby in danger in any way. One thing my therapist said helped in an unexpected way. She said something could happen or not happen on or off the road. We cannot prevent only go with the flow and realize where growth can happen.

[@countingsheep5483]

I've driven over a bridge 800 times and each time it's terrible. I don't believe in exposure therapy. A soldier doesnt get over ptsd by going back to war.

[@sleepingdogpro]

I'm finding that it's not just the driving but what I do before and after the driving that matters. I'll always feel some measure of anxiety approaching a freeway but if I've spent the day before just doing self-care, and if my destination is something I'll really enjoy, and if once I've reached that destination I take a minute to remind myself that I did fine (then do deep breathing and a full body shake) I'm usually okay. The anxiety doesn't leave but you can get it to a place where it's bearable.

[@heatherallingham7120]

Your soldier analogy is perfect. I'll have to use it when explaining my phobia to others. Thanks ~

[@countingsheep5483]

There's no books on normal people because what's chaos for the fly is normal to the spider. I haven't figured it out yet..but 1 common thread is..if we saw someone kidnap a kid..we would follow them anywhere at any speed. Purpose above yourself..it's like a spell or affliction thats broken in extreme conditions.

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Counting Sheep, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/, which might be helpful in explaining some of the principles of exposure therapy. One of the things we talk about is taking baby steps and building up your confidence with your distress at about a 7/10 or 8/10. The podcast is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/.

[@mariaarias1703]

I just started driving again after 10 years n I'm terrified of the highway

[@sousoubouz]

same here :( good luck to all of us :)

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Maria, Well done for getting back behind the wheel! Hopefully you found the video helpful, but if you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video.

[@TheF1speedracing]

I have been suffering from driving with anxiety in fog and rain for the past 8 years. After seeing my grandpa take his last breath on life support via facetime they decided to take him off life support within a second from hospital from Chicago. The whole plane ride there was anxious way back was anxious. From California to there. I don’t know why everytime it is foggy or rainy my brain makes me think something dangerous is going to happen if I go towards the fog or driving in the rain. I have driven many times in thick fog and snow and rain heavy down pours but now my anxiety is so bad I cannot do that as yet. Feels like a boulder just crushing down at the time. Not sure how else to describe the feeling. It just feels numbing at times to not being able to do something that was once able to do. Not sure if it makes sense or not. Sometimes I just break down and cry when I turn around and come back home some how.

[@Adventuresofaboymomof2]

I know how she feels so much.I am dealing with this

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi The Celtic Queen of Random, Thank you for bravely sharing that with us! If you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video.

[@annsummerswithbeki]

When I go over high bridges or open motorways I feel like I'm having the outta body experience. Dizzy . Out of control sweaty feeling like I'm gonna pass out etc and I'm scared of the not been in control

[@moniquemcgill2467]

It's such an awful feeling the anxiety and panic I struggle with it so bad with driving on moterways

[@blackdemins42910]

I’ve got kids almost 30 years old I NEED to drive but I can’t afford classes and my husband thinks I’ll just go home and I think I will too but this is a nightmare I have to renew my permit every year thankfully it’s an eye exam and that’s all 😢

[@desireebryant9523]

My problem is when drivers are right on you bummer 😩😩😩 give me some space!!!! 😡 if the person in front of me stops short the person behind me is in my trunk 😢

[@krakpatsboemke]

I have it too,and panic attack in a tunnel with no way out..everywhere cars!!!

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi livefastandforever, Thank you for bravely sharing that with us. If you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video and it will also relate to driving in a tunnel, so hopefully it is helpful for you!

[@jonathandoe2316]

I fully understand I just took my first lesson earlier this week. And I'm a man I can face other stuff. It was driving that scared me and I did fine. Good look.

[@mariie5289]

This is so wonderful!

[@geriking516]

I have a fear of trucks & 18 wheelers while driving on a parkway or expressway. Makes me cringe. I'm trying to get rid of the fear.

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Mostly Sunny, Thanks for bravely sharing your experience. Well done on your efforts to get rid of the fear! If you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video.

[@MontyQueues]

i honestly believe id be a good driver but just never overcame the fear of learning

[@SMLVIDEOEDITS]

I have the same problem, on A roads that are like motorways where you go 70MPH, I feel like i have some sort of vertigo or out of body feeling because of speed. It doesn’t help that i can sense and feel the speed around me when the windows are closed and have no breeze or anything on me

[@jeppejemmari7840]

Same here.

[@SMLVIDEOEDITS]

@@jeppejemmari7840 hope your ok

[@user-kg3tm7ue1s]

That is my problem too. I can feel the car

[@kingjd-payback2928]

i m having a great fear of bike riding i know how to ride it but i cant make me ride on roads . what i can do to overcome ?

[@freebutterfly7328]

Iam fraid of changing lans 😭. Some people won’t give way n that make me sooo scared I do not know how to deal with.

[@FourHuskyHomestead]

I have severe spinal damage from a plane crash and psoriatic arthritis. My fear is that if I drive somewhere I want be able to drive back because of the pain.

[@biggiantbulb1]

Good job!!!

[@axel9546]

Hi! How would you overcome the fear of "being stuck" in traffic? I can drive, no problem at all, but I panic when stuck at red light, or just in car traffic. This does not happen when in bike

[@Marie-ge5yy]

Sounds like anxiety due to fear. Ask yourself why being stuck in traffic would scare you. Then think it through. i.e Ok if i get stuck i'll practice breathing. or i'll listen to music.... try a meditation app they work. Trust me i've been there. if u are religious pray - that also calms the mind and ur fear. Good luck 😊

[@deerheart87]

Def x ​@@Marie-ge5yy

[@mt2oo8]

My driving test is in a few weeks and I feel overwhelmed with feelings that I'm not meant to drive, I don't feel confident and if I do have a good lesson with my instructor I believe it's luck and no tricky situations appeared

[@cece3547]

I cant drive properly anyway

[@cristakatsumi8515]

same with the roads going up the los angeles forest near big bear.

[@Douglas-1994]

I’m 28 years old and I have a stomach turning/burning anxiety of highways. I would watch road rage videos on KZbin and so now I’m worried if I do something wrong like accidentally cutting off or whatever to someone, they’ll try to hurt me or kill me. 😢😢

[@user-kg3tm7ue1s]

I get angry when i have to travel😢

[@stever507]

My gf has panic attacks and won’t let me get on freeway . I have to do circus tricks by taking back roads to get places with her . I’m considering just putting her in the trunk . I get anxiety just listening to her

[@YuliaGrushevskaya-bi6he]

😂it is so much like me😂 i am not scared to do paravents but driving on New places drives me nuts😂😂😂😂

[@florencebentley6081]

Can drive anywhere when someone with me .its doing it bye myself that I can drive on certain roads

[@Ali-po9le]

I'm 21, haven't gotten a permit or license yet and I don't know why I have such a deep fear of driving, I have drove, people have tried to teach me how, but I get sweaty nauseous and my heart feels like it's beating out of my chest. I've never had interest in driving because it scares me, then 2 years ago I was in a car accident as a passenger and that really heightened what was already there. I'm trying to get my permit, trying to get over this, but I keep putting it off. I've been "trying" to get my permit for a couple years now, and I just can't bring myself to drive even though I know I need to. What should i do to help

[@iffybakker7440]

Life runs over us folks! I don't want anyone driving when they PANIC!!

[@noblegirl1991]

My fear is driving around curves. I am ok with straight driving

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Noblegirl, Hopefully you found some parts of this video helpful! If you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video.

[@ArmandoLuis1318]

I hate driving so I understand..

[@jamalafzalkhan3181]

Not all r lucky to get a teacher/doctor to deal with driving phobia

[@tamsinthai]

I don't have a phobia about driving despite my nde 13 years ago, it's the rest of the them on the roads here (Thailand) scare the sh**t out of me. The whtey ALWAYS pays in case of an 'accident'.

[@swiftytaco8080]

See, I want to drive my car around since it feels relaxing when I'm calm, but the act of pulling my car out and having not driven since I took my driver's test (i passed) as well as having dreams where I have zero control over the car makes me feel horrible

[@katytj643]

I am driving and i am fearful and then i get better but then again i feel anxious again!

[@realityisbest8963]

Consistency every day ❤

[@crystalphillips6577]

I don't have problem driving myself I have problem with traveling plans, car and anything that travel fast and full of people

[@phasespace4700]

The thing is, fear of driving is like fear of rattlesnakes when a rattlesnake is inches from your leg and about to bite you. You can't even call fear of driving a phobia. NOT being terrified of driving is probably a form of mental illness as you are _always_ seconds from death when you are in one of these contraptions. Every day we hear on the radio Crash. Crash. Another crash. Dead,. Permanently crippled. Dead. Paralyzed. Dead. Dead. Crippled. Dead. People just tune it out and think it won't happen to them because otherwise the terror is too much to endure.

[@KayciazWorld]

I completely agree. As someone who has a fear of driving I always have found it odd that people aren't afraid of it. I mean, it's completely logical to be afraid of it. Because it's terrifying in reality. I understand not allowing fears to cripple you but, it's kind of hard when the fear is a completely logical one

[@user-kg3tm7ue1s]

I would be happy living where the only mode of transport is walking or a donkey 😂 I trust my driving...but others nope

[@paulvanderwal6787]

Try Emotional Freedom Techniques or Thought Field Therapy. Far more easier/effective and less painful!

[@allboroughllcfilm]

YOOOOO!!! That’s me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@kimyadabrock9126]

Wow I have the same fear I was in an accident in 1993

[@GRACEFUL_GOSPEL-0]

I have a phobia with everything 😢

[@deekshithm7754]

I have stalling manual car anxiety and driving phobia. I have seen experienced driver stalls the car which made me scare and death of person how to cure please help me and suggest it literally killing me.

[@DsabanovicDemo]

Guys the main problem in traffic when i drive ! Started driving lessons 11th lesson done today,9 more to go! What to do,i am scared of too many cars in the traffic,some advice? Sometimes i feel less scared and maybe get too loose,also that ..

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Dsabanovic27, Thank you for bravely sharing that with us. Well done for taking up the challenge and getting lessons. That's very brave when you're feeling fearful! Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. One of the things he speaks about in the podcast is developing some self-statements or a mantra that can help you reduce your anxiety when you're in traffic. Something positive you can say to yourself when you're feeling scared such as "I can do this," or "I will be ok," or "just breathe," Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video and it sounds like it will be helpful to you.

[@khnour1549]

I feel like inability to take breath nd panic nd literally daying in the tramway it's been 6 monthes since i started to avoid it but now with no therapy m going next week to the city so i can face my fear .. nd m so terrified i've thinkin of it since i took the dicision .but m doin it any way .

[@iriel4274]

I have this and I stead of being supported I get taunted by family members on why I don't drive no one gives a damn about my fear

[@KEE_904]

I struggle so bad with driving I'm a good driver but other cars , espcailly 18 wheelers just scares me, hands start sweating .. I just have to force myself to drive more because I have two kids and I have to be able to drive . I just can't get over being so nervous , I need some serious help . 😭😭

[@pendafen7405]

What if you're just naturally bad at driving and uninterested in it? That in itself creates unfair limits on a person by society, by restricting access to jobs, etc. I can't say I fear to drive, but because I have autism that creates sensory overwhelm and split focus, I'm someone who probably isn't safe to drive, so I don't. Also, I tried passing my test 7 times and failed every one. And just because of that, I'm treated like a deficient child by the rest of the world.

[@eatpigsnot]

i know three senior citizens who never learned to drive. are they ever on to something

[@fractalofgod6324]

I really struggle with this problem

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Fractal of God, I'm sorry to hear that you're struggling with this problem. Thank you for sharing that with us. If you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video.

[@fractalofgod6324]

@@chrismackeypsychology6775 thank you I'll look it up x

[@pendafen7405]

Personally, driving anxiety to me seems like completely reasonable fear that shouldn't necessarily be over-ridden. Roads and cars kill more people than most diseases or other accidents. Driving causes chronic stress both physical and emotional on the body. Commuting also pollutes our air & water, and wastes days of our precious time. Perhaps some of us are just waking up to the fact driving is bad for humanity?

[@GregoryPLoomis]

You probably have agoraphobia. Being out in the open freaks me out. I hate driving too Heights, crowds, flying...

[@marissamoreno2706]

I do accept what a few other comments have written - definately not as easy than it sounds to overcome fear of driving. You should be aware of this and get help from other people. I looked round many websites and found some great advice by searching google on sites such as Roys Quick Fix. I wish you luck and hope you are successful!

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Gregory, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which may be helpful for you and is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video.

[@sarahcouture1794]

Same for me

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Sarah, Thanks for sharing that with us. If you are interested, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video.

[@blacqtip]

I'm experiencing this phobia and I'd like help so I can drive.

[@chrismackeypsychology6775]

Hi Olivia, Chris has also done a podcast on this topic, which is available at www.chrismackey.com.au/dealing-with-a-driving-phobia/. Please feel free to check it out as Chris goes into more detail about dealing with a driving phobia than in the video. Hopefully it is helpful for you!

[@monicanixdesigns]

Get mad..get angry at it..u will get there...feel free to message me and I can be of some help..together..we can overcome this battle..find me on facebook..my name is monica dempsey xo

[@tommycoughlan4104]

Feelings are not facts

[@morebyaas]

Lovin it like Macdonalds :)

[@morebyaas]

I’m such a scared driver . This helps . ! I thank u

[@keynanmartinez]

I'm never going to drive... Truth be told I'm going to died because of my brain.

[@livywithane]

Guess I'm having exposure therapy... by my dad.😩