Healing and Hypnotherapy Volume 5, Issue -3, 1 September 2020 | Page 5

you have ever felt comfortable driving, then that is something you learned, so
if you are uncomfortable now, you can relearn how to be comfortable again.
Driving Anxiety Tips
Here are some tips to help you get back on the road feeling safe and
comfortable and confident. If you are currently not driving due to fear, I highly
recommend that you seek help as many have been able to resume driving
with the help of a good Therapist or Hypnotherapist.
• The basics: Avoid driving on an empty stomach. Pay attention to how
you feel after eating certain foods, especially those high in sugar or
simple carbs (bread, pastries, soft drinks). Drinking alcohol the night
before can also trigger blood sugar imbalances. Also, if you are driving
while sleep deprived, you are asking for trouble. Start by taking care of
yourself.
• Caffeine: is a known trigger for anxiety. Some of my clients have felt a
marked relief in anxiety just by cutting back on caffeinated beverages.
• Consider car pooling: If you are engaged in conversation you are less
liable to think anxious thoughts. You also have to drive half as much.
Think this one over carefully, as some people are more distracted while
conversing while driving.
• Manage your stress: A common cause for anxiety is extended periods
of overwhelming stress. Do what you can to lower your stress level:
exercise, take more breaks, meditation, yoga, etc.
• Affirmations: Hand write, in script, some positive affirmation about
your ability to drive calm, comfortable and relaxed. For example "I'm
calm, comfortable and relaxed while driving and enjoying listening to
music (the radio, audio books, etc.)" Read them right before you go to
bed and right after you wake up. Say them out loud and imagine
yourself driving while feeling calm and relaxed. Don't underestimate the
power of this simple exercise.
• What really stops most people is the anticipatory anxiety: "Oh my
God, I need to drive tomorrow out to the west side. I just know this is
going to cause me a lot of anxiety. I'm already feeling it!" Instead, try
saying something like "Yeah, if I feel anxious I know I can handle it.”
• Desensitisation: This is a therapeutic technique which can help you
become more comfortable with what is fearful. I use desensitisation with