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Car Travel Anxiety

(5 Posts)
Glenfinnan Fri 14-Aug-26 11:11:56

I’m increasing suffering anxiety from being a passenger in a car. I’m fine when driving myself ….but as a passenger I’m becoming a real pain to myself Husband and other people driving me. Does anyone have any practical tips to stop this please it’s ruining trips out! I’m always worried we are going to have an accident! All advice gratefully received!

fancythat Fri 14-Aug-26 11:13:14

Are they a good driver?
Are they a better driver than you?

Georgesgran Fri 14-Aug-26 11:25:51

If it’s any consolation I think many of us prefer being the driver to the passenger.

When my car was off the road, kind friends picked me up to go for coffee, but I was shocked at the standard of driving and even basic lack of the Highway Code shown by a couple of them - I wouldn’t have liked a long drive with them. I was grateful of course, but even more so, to get my car back . I’m fine being a passenger with my BF and both DDs.

Do you actually have to go with other people (other than DH) so maybe turn down the invitations? However, in your position I wouldn’t let it take over - maybe a mild medication could help, like those given out to nervous fliers or dentist phonics. Easy to say, but don’t let it get the better of you.

Georgesgran Fri 14-Aug-26 11:26:53

phonics??? Should be phobics of course!

shysal Fri 14-Aug-26 11:55:10

I spent a weekend travelling with a friend who did the driving. I was so anxious I couldn't enjoy myself. Even crossing the road on foot worried me, as I thought she was taking unnecessary risks.
It turned out that I was suffering from an overactive thyroid which heightened the anxiety. After medication I improved although I am still inwardly critical of others' driving.