by Shelly Barclay

Created on: June 27, 2009   Last Updated: July 19, 2009

For many people who suffer from anxiety or panic attacks, driving can be a harrowing task. This is especially true for long distance drives. Worry about having a panic attack while driving even stops some sufferers from driving at all. For people who have anxiety and wish to continue driving, there are a few things you can do to ensure your safety and that of others. Panic attacks are terrifying to experience that can effect your concentration and reaction time. However, there are some steps that can be taken to minimize the danger of the situation.

Sometimes, a person who suffers from frequent panic attacks can sense them coming, before they become debilitating. They may have a few seconds or even a few minutes, before the worst of the panic attack hits, to decide the best course of action. If you feel a severe panic attack coming on while you are driving, the best thing to do is to slow down and pull over safely. Unfortunately, it is not always that simple. If you are stuck in traffic or on a busy highway and you think the attack is going to be severe enough to affect your ability to drive, turn on your hazard lights. This is an indication to other drivers that there is a problem and you need to get off the road. Courteous drivers should then get out of your way to the best of their ability.

Not everyone can feel a panic attack coming on. If this is the case for you then try to summon any breathing techniques or happy thoughts that you have in your arsenal. Try to maintain your composure to the best of your ability. Remember it will only take you a few moments to get off the road and park your car. You will then be able to deal with the panic attack itself without having to worry about your safety. Your safety should take precedence over any engagement you had, so don't stress about time lost.

Some anxiety attacks are not severe enough to affect one's ability to drive. Mild panic attacks may not cause an immediate risk, but can quickly elevate in a stressful driving situation. If you are having a mild panic attack, the best thing to do is to try to clear your head and think of all the possible good outcomes of your day. Try not to think negative things that may increase your anxiety. Keeping your music at a low volume or rolling down your window to get some fresh air may even help. Whatever you do, be sure to concentrate on your driving. This alone may be able to distract you enough to get you to your destination without incident.

Panic/anxiety attacks are different for everyone. Some people have difficulty breathing, others shake uncontrollably or feel nauseous, or any combination of these and countless other symptoms. Because of this, whatever works to keep your anxiety at bay while driving may not work for others. The important thing is to have a plan in place that makes you feel comfortable. So when you feel an anxiety attack coming on while you are driving, you know exactly what to do and you are comfortable doing it. Sometimes the satisfaction of getting through an anxiety attack is the best therapy you can get.

It is also important to note that a person who suffers from debilitating anxiety attacks may want to keep a cell phone with them when they are driving. Not only so that you can get help if your anxiety is out of control, but also because sometimes it helps to talk to a friend for a little while. And if you are on medication for your anxiety, keep some on you at all times, if possible. (Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions for the use of your medication.)

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