“I used to have panic attacks driving in rush hour. Now I work from home, and I don’t drive at all. My friend is starting to get on my case about not driving. But I don’t see a problem. Should I be worried?”
Avoiding a routine that’s stressful for you, like driving in heavy traffic, sounds like a nice perk to your new job. But you say you don’t drive anymore. First, ask yourself:
- Am I able to do other things in my life without driving?
- Am I able to get groceries or run errands?
- Am I still able to see friends?
Many people get by without a car. In a city with stores on every corner, or public transit, it can work well. But I suspect that’s not true for you based on your friend’s concern.
People with panic attacks or PTSD symptoms often develop avoidance behaviors. This means avoiding things that may bring on symptoms. For example, avoiding public places where having a panic attack would be “embarrassing.” Or hard to escape. And those with PTSD may avoid areas or reminders of their trauma.
Does this ring true for you? Avoiding something, like driving, feels like you’re in control of your fear or anxiety. Unfortunately, the opposite is true. Avoiding driving reinforces the idea that driving is scary. And that makes it even more so. In the end, fear forces you to come up with workarounds, like finding someone to drive you. Or getting things delivered to your home.
If you think this is happening to you, or someone you love, treatment can help. Freespira is an option that works quickly to relieve panic attacks and PTSD symptoms. It’s medication-free and may be covered by your insurance. You can do it right at home.
See if Freespira is right for you by checking your symptoms now.
