Join Now
lanie516 
8:43am, February 25, 2009
I've driven since my neice's tragic car accident, but I had a "minor" panic attack the other day while driving. I wasn't even on a highway or a bridge. Someone was getting too close behind me and I felt that old feeling starting to well up. I focused on the road ahead, took a deep breath, even turned up my rear view mirror so I couldn't see the car. All at once my body seemed to change.....it happens so quickly the way our adrenalin starts rushing in, all at the thought of something. I was very very tired that day so that didn't help. It passed quickly but now I'm feeling more of a fear to drive. My H and I went over a really high bridge yesterday, and even with him driving I felt very very anxious.....not panic. I just said to myself I could NEVER do this. I should accept this bridge thing by now, but I don't want to be in fear of doing the driving I've been doing.
Today I have an appointment to go to the local school district for a sub teaching orientation. I'm making my husband drive me. It's about a 25 minute drive on the parkway. This doesn't make me feel good about myself so that adds to low self-esteem and some depression.
What happened to all my skills and positive thinking? I know our thoughts create our feelings and subsequently our body responds accordingly. I really have to get back on track with my books and my tapes and focus on the positive. Please wish me good luck and if you have any encouraging words I'd love to hear them.
Comments
Elaine,
Considering the loss you've recently experienced & the fact that it was due to a car accident, I think it's perfectly normal for you to be having a setback. You may have to start over again with your books, tapes & counselling, but you will get back to where you were, in time. Give yourself time to process your grief, which has brought all your fears to the surface again. And, go easy on yourself. Just because you are having trouble with panic & anxiety now doesn't negate that you came a long way, prior to your loss. Take it one baby step at a time, & you will come out the stronger for it. You are in my prayers.
Love, Debi
2alone
Elaine, I agree with Debi that your feelings are understandable. At least you know why you are having a set back. You also know what has helped in the past. That seems to be a giant step in the right direction. Give yourself time to take the next step. And here at DS there is plenty of help and non judgemental support.
LongIslandKat
Thank you Debi and Kathy. I DID IT!!!! I made the drive on the highway to the school district all by myself. 15 miles on the highway. I'm emotionally tired but I do feel good about doing it. My H didn't really want to go so I said oh well, I'm gonna do it. I faced my fear! Hooray for me....
lanie516