TeenHelp - Quick Tips: Overcoming driving anxiety

Overcoming driving anxiety

By Charlie (Wingless.)

Learning to drive can be a daunting and anxiety-inducing experience. With so many things to keep track of at once it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed at times, even if you might have been driving for a while. Here are some tips to help manage driving-related anxiety so that you can have a smoother, less stressful ride.

Plan ahead. Each time you get behind the wheel, make sure you have at least a rough outline of the route you’re going to take. This could include factors such as potential hazards, road rules and speed limits, how long the trip should take, and, in the case of longer trips, when and where you can pull over to have a rest or switch drivers. You may need to alter your plan as you go, but having a starting point can make for a less scary journey.
Know what environment works for you. Everyone is different, and it can take a while to figure out what conditions best help you concentrate. Does having the radio on distract you or help keep you focussed? How far forward should the driver’s seat be, and at what angle? Try a few different configurations until you find what feels most comfortable for you – but remember to ask before adjusting anything major (like the steering column) if you’re driving a car other than your own!
Go at your own pace. There can be a lot of pressure around learning to drive, especially if you’re older than the minimum age for having your licence. While it can be discouraging to feel like you’re somehow behind your peers, remember that you can learn to drive at any age and that there’s no set timeline. Understanding your limits, learning pace, and comfort zone is far more useful than entertaining thoughts of needing to catch up or rush the process. Don’t let anyone, including yourself, push you into doing anything you don’t feel ready for.
Pinpoint particular anxieties. While anxiety can be an all-encompassing feeling, sometimes there can be a more specific basis for it if you dig a little deeper. Consider whether you’re anxious about something in particular, such as a particular manoeuvre (e.g. a three-point turn) or mechanical skill (e.g. changing gears). If so, focussing on that aspect first can help you build your confidence and ensure you feel more confident taking the wheel.
Be gentle with yourself. Learning to drive can be difficult, and even more so when you have anxiety around it. That’s why it’s important to be kind to yourself during the process, even if you make mistakes or take longer to learn than you would like. Creating a positive learning environment starts with you, so try to focus on the positives and remain patient. Remember that you’re doing your best, and that there’s no rush to learn how to drive.