Fast-moving traffic, busy roads, and out of control drivers - many people find these factors enough reason to fear driving.
For others, traumatic accidents may contribute to their unwillingness to drive or ride a car again.
Some of these fears eventually pass, but for others, such fear of driving may possibly lead to severe stress in the form of driving anxiety.
Because driving anxiety is such a serious condition that can cause numerous problems for you (and your loved ones), it is important for the sufferer to get help as soon as possible.
Read on to learn more about this anxiety disorder.
What is driving anxiety exactly? According to research, driving anxiety is a mental disorder wherein sufferers feel fear and apprehension towards driving.
It may be caused by a number of things - trauma from car accidents like collisions, stressful driving conditions like speeding or tailgating by other drivers, or bad weather.
Those who suffer from driving anxiety may experience a variety of symptoms, including difficulty in breathing, light-headed, shaking, dizziness and/or fear of crashing into something while behind the wheel.
Others also experience claustrophobia, especially when they are stuck in heavy traffic, or they may hyperventilate in the most unforeseen occasions.
Sufferers may have a fear of losing control, suddenly panic while driving, and be hesitant to drive even in emergency situations.
Tip: If you experience severe anxiety or panic attacks while driving, safely pull over and wait until it passes.
If you are still afraid to drive afterward call a friend or family member to get you.
There have been many stories about driving anxiety and the trouble it causes for many people.
In most cases, young and elderly female drivers are most likely to suffer from this problem, though male drivers may suffer from the disorder as well.
A person who suffers from this type of anxiety may think irrationally while he or she is on the road - some drivers are unable to drive at the proper speed or may release their hold on the steering wheel when a speeding vehicle approaches them from another lane.
These intense reactions are very dangerous (especially if driving alone or during bad conditions).
Fortunately, driving anxiety can be treated.
If any physical symptoms are felt, the individual should consult his or her doctor to check if any serious medical condition or problem may be causing the symptoms.
After that, a good course of action would be to find a good relief from anxiety, preferably without medication.