How to deal with trauma from post medical emergency?

Posted by saint0cloud@reddit | driving | View on Reddit | 1 comments

For some context about 2 weeks ago I had a strange anxiety/panic attack episode pulling up to a traffic light. I’ve never had driving anxiety so that took me completely out of the blue. Of course I pulled over before the sensations intensified but I think that traumatised me so much that every time I attempt to drive for more than 5 minutes I begin to get very dizzy and disoriented so I have to stop again.

I am taking a break from driving until my doctor can figure it out but I was wondering if anyone had any similar experiences?

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Blue8Evan@reddit

Good call on not driving if you don't feel safe or secure driving. In the meantime, I'd look into a therapist or psychiatrist, chances are this is a mental problem, not a physical one. If the car seems to be a trigger, try just sitting in it with no intention of driving, maybe watch a movie in the driver's seat on your phone or computer, or just sit there for 5-15 min every day? It might help teach your brain a car is not a bad place.