Aside from being a health issue, panic attacks is also a safety concern since they happen unexpectedly and instantaneously. Panic attacks sufferers are placing themselves, their passengers and other motorists at risk when they are behind the wheel. Sufferers who really need to drive must be aware of the triggers and signs of panic attacks to prevent accidents. Some signs include dizziness, loss of concentration, rapid heartbeat, and excessive sweating. Here are some guidelines that a panic attack sufferer can follow to ensure the safety of himself and others:
1. Pull over. If it's possible, pull off to the side of the road or take the next exit so you can get your bearings. Having a panic attack while driving can make you feel overwhelmed and disoriented, so you may need to take a break, stretch your legs and regain perspective. Don't force yourself to push on through because you could be putting yourself at risk for an accident.
2. Turn on some soothing music. When you can't pull over right away, you can lower your stress levels naturally by turning on some soothing music and giving your mind a break. Focus less on what is happening to you, and just hone in on the music. This is a safe distraction that will help you stay on course and lower your risk of having a full-blown panic attack.
3. Open the windows. If you don't have the opportunity to pull over, get some fresh oxygen into the car by opening all of the windows and taking a few deep breaths. Breathing deeply is important for maintaining mental clarity when you start to feel anxious, and some fresh air can help to clear your head as well.
4. Pull over and call someone. If you need someone to talk to, don't make the mistake of trying to call while maneuvering the car. Pull over, take a few deep breathes, and call someone you can trust to let them know what you are experiencing. Sometimes telling someone what is going on can help you work through it and may even lower your risk of a panic attack.
5. Stating positive statements. Positive statements such as "I am a good driver" and "everything is going well" can influence your mood for the better. Say these statements to yourselves while driving or just place a reminder of the affirmation somewhere in your car. Affirmations won't necessarily yield dramatic results the first time you use them. Practice using affirmations everyday to get the most out of the benefits they provide.
6. Take a companion with you when driving. Having someone ride with you is better than driving alone. It would be best to take someone who can drive with you so that he or she can drive if ever you're overwhelmed by stress.
7. Bring healthy foods. In addition to the stress brought about by driving, dehydration and hunger can also set in, specially during long drives. Bring along some healthy foods with you to keep your body and mind at optimum condition. - 30415
1. Pull over. If it's possible, pull off to the side of the road or take the next exit so you can get your bearings. Having a panic attack while driving can make you feel overwhelmed and disoriented, so you may need to take a break, stretch your legs and regain perspective. Don't force yourself to push on through because you could be putting yourself at risk for an accident.
2. Turn on some soothing music. When you can't pull over right away, you can lower your stress levels naturally by turning on some soothing music and giving your mind a break. Focus less on what is happening to you, and just hone in on the music. This is a safe distraction that will help you stay on course and lower your risk of having a full-blown panic attack.
3. Open the windows. If you don't have the opportunity to pull over, get some fresh oxygen into the car by opening all of the windows and taking a few deep breaths. Breathing deeply is important for maintaining mental clarity when you start to feel anxious, and some fresh air can help to clear your head as well.
4. Pull over and call someone. If you need someone to talk to, don't make the mistake of trying to call while maneuvering the car. Pull over, take a few deep breathes, and call someone you can trust to let them know what you are experiencing. Sometimes telling someone what is going on can help you work through it and may even lower your risk of a panic attack.
5. Stating positive statements. Positive statements such as "I am a good driver" and "everything is going well" can influence your mood for the better. Say these statements to yourselves while driving or just place a reminder of the affirmation somewhere in your car. Affirmations won't necessarily yield dramatic results the first time you use them. Practice using affirmations everyday to get the most out of the benefits they provide.
6. Take a companion with you when driving. Having someone ride with you is better than driving alone. It would be best to take someone who can drive with you so that he or she can drive if ever you're overwhelmed by stress.
7. Bring healthy foods. In addition to the stress brought about by driving, dehydration and hunger can also set in, specially during long drives. Bring along some healthy foods with you to keep your body and mind at optimum condition. - 30415
About the Author:
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