Having a Panic Attack while drive is a very scary proposition.  Do you get lightheaded, dizzy, and sweaty palms? Maybe you have heart palpitation or trouble breathing. This is a form of panic attack that is triggered by certain stimulus or by the thought of driving in certain situations. This may be due to a previous accident or just the thought alone is often enough to cause these nasty episodes.

Now that we know what your problem is, you can work on treating yourself. As we all know it’s not just as easy as wanting to control them, we have to take proactive measures and stay with process. You can deal with them naturally if you are willing to put the time and effort in.

Tips to help you avoid panic attacks while driving

Distract your mind, and one great way to do this is with soothing music. You probably don’t want to be playing head bangers ball if you are in heavy traffic or a stressful situation. Play something that will make you feel more relaxed.

Think about something that you enjoy doing. If you like playing golf think about ways you are going to improve your score. If you like doing crafts or socializing with friends, think about these actions. It’s important to get your mind off the act of driving. Of course not literally as you need to pay attention, but you need to multi-task your mind so you won’t be preoccupied with the actual act of driving.

Bring some healthy snacks as this will keep your blood sugar at normal levels, and help your body from pumping out adrenaline.

Most of us already have a mobile phone, but if not purchase one as this can often be used as a security blanket to put you at ease. This way you know if something does happen you can deal with.

Those are just a few of the things you can use, to help you from having a panic attack while driving. Below are what you should do if you unfortunately do have an episode while driving.

What to do if you have a panic attack while driving

First, and probably most obvious, you should pull over to the side of the road at the safest possible time. You will feel the attack coming on if you have dealt with it before so if you feel it coming on you should probably prepare to pull over at the next safest possible time. Once you are pulled over start working on your breathing, so maybe you should back a paper bag to help you with your breathing.

Don’t make it worse by worrying about it. Ok you are having a panic attack, big deal….. you are not the first or last person to have one. These are the type of things you must drive home in your mind to effectively deal with them. There is a good course at the banner above that teach CBT , or techniques that deal with panic attacks. Once you marginalize the attack you will start to feel better, and will be better prepared better for future episodes.

Some of you may only deal with panic attacks while driving, but others may deal with them all the time. If you have not talked with your doctor, maybe you should, but don’t look for the magic pill, because there really is not one. I recommend trying everything and see what works, but the way you react to them will be the true way to overcome them. I recommend clicking the banner at the top of the page, and also speaking with your physician for possible short term meds to help you. Many are scared of the meds, but they can help sometimes to get you out of a jam until the course work starts helping you.