Why Driving Freaks Me Out and Why Others Should Respect That

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Hey everyone,


Today, I want to address a topic that’s been on my mind for a while: driving and the pressure I feel from others, especially my mom, to get over my fear of it. I’ve been open about my anxiety around driving, but it seems like there’s still some misunderstanding about why this fear is so profound for me.


Why Driving Is a Big Deal for Me


Driving has always been a source of anxiety for me. Even though I love to travel and explore new places, the idea of getting behind the wheel is something I just can’t bring myself to do. I’ve tried to explain this to those around me, but the pressure to “just get over it” often feels overwhelming.


The Impact of a Past Trauma


When I was 19, I was involved in a severe car accident. The trauma from the accident not only left me physically bruised but also had long-lasting effects on my mental health. The shock of the accident contributed to a diabetes diagnosis, which only intensified my fear of driving. This wasn’t just a minor inconvenience—it was a life-changing event that made driving even more daunting for me.


The Loss of My Traveling Buddy


My grandma Mary was not just my favorite person but also my first and most cherished traveling buddy. She passed away in 2006, just nine days after my 19th birthday. Losing her was a profound blow, and her absence has made traveling and driving even more challenging. I miss having her by my side on journeys, and her loss has compounded my feelings of isolation regarding this issue.


The Loss of My Best Friend


Additionally, I lost my best friend Mark two years ago. He was someone who not only shared my love for travel but also provided support and encouragement whenever I needed it. Without him, I no longer have anyone close who drives or enjoys road trips, which has made my fear of driving even more pronounced.


Why I’m Not the Only One


I know I’m not alone in this fear. Many people experience anxiety about driving for various reasons, including past traumas and personal discomfort. It’s important to recognize that everyone has their own fears and limitations. Just because driving is a normal part of life for many doesn’t mean it’s easy or feasible for everyone.


Respecting Personal Boundaries


What I need from those around me is respect and understanding. If my fear of driving doesn’t impact you directly, it shouldn’t be a point of contention. Pressuring someone to overcome a fear that they’re not ready to face can be stressful and counterproductive. Everyone has their own pace and way of dealing with their anxieties.


Moving Forward


I’m working on finding ways to manage my anxiety and explore alternative solutions for travel and mobility. I appreciate the support and patience of those who understand where I’m coming from and respect my boundaries.


Conclusion


Driving is a challenge I’m not currently prepared to tackle, and that’s okay. It’s crucial for others to respect my feelings and not push me beyond my comfort zone. Everyone has their own struggles, and compassion goes a long way in supporting each other.


Thank you for taking the time to understand my perspective. If you have similar experiences or thoughts, I’d love to hear from you in the comments.


Until next time,

Shadeira 🥰

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