Overcome Fear of Getting Lost While Driving

All of us have a fear of getting lost while driving to our destination. But, there are people who really have a phobia of losing their way while navigating their cars. And if you are one of those people, you need to overcome fear of getting lost while driving. Your anxiety is limiting your freedom to go to unfamiliar places, and you should act on it.

Overcoming your distress over getting lost while driving

Your fear of getting lost while driving could stem from a traumatic event where you were lost in the road. This anxiety only manifests when you are travelling in roads that you have not passed through before. But with familiar roads in your neighborhood or going to work, you have no issue. But, you cannot live your life confined to what you know. You should explore the world, and to do that you need to overcome your driving fear of getting lost. And we can help you with that.

Create your personal anxiety relief kit

You need to build your own anxiety relief kit when you are about to drive in an unfamiliar road. This kit includes:

• Cellphone – in case of emergency on the road, you need to call the police, tow truck service, car repair shop, and your family and friends.
• Power bank or cellphone charger – you need juice on your phone at all times while driving, so never leave them behind.
• Relaxation CD – this CD usually comes from a self-help program, and it helps you overcome your fear.
• GPS – a GPS system helps you stay on track, and allows you to find your way.
• Bottle of water – water helps to calm you down when you feel agitated.
• Anti-anxiety medication – bring only medication that is prescribed by your doctor.
• Paper bag – use this to manage your hyperventilation.

Self-help program

A self-help program is what you need to help you get over your driving fear of getting lost. Start listening to the self-help CD as soon as you hit the road, and keep listening until you reach your destination. You can also listen to your CD while at home, in order to condition your mind.

Get therapy

It is a good idea to consult a therapist when your fear of getting lost while driving becomes too much of a burden. Get therapy sessions and let your doctor guide you on how to overcome this type of driving anxiety. In therapy, you face the source of your fear, and learn how to deal with it.

Utilize relaxation methods

The stifling fear you feel in your gut while in an unfamiliar road is not something that people can judge. But, you have the power to control your dizzying emotions by using relaxation methods. Take a moment to breathe deeply in and out through your nose and mouth, and feel your body relax.

Study the rules of the road

Panic over getting lost often comes from limited knowledge about the road rules. To avoid getting so stressed about losing your way while driving, you must get accustomed to the road rules.

How to avoid losing your way while driving

Even if you have successfully managed to overcome your driving phobia of getting lost, you still need to take precautions. Do whatever is necessary to avoid getting lost.

Road research

Before you embark on a road journey, you should research about your route first. Get acquainted with how the road looks like, what to expect when it comes to traffic, lanes, gasoline stations, diners, and more. Carefully plan your travel, so there are no surprises that can trigger your driving phobia.

Install a navigating system

A navigation system is a necessity that you must have in your car. It allows you to access your destination without missing a turn and losing your way.

What to do when you get lost while driving

No one likes to get lost whole driving. Unless you are with your long-time crush and you intentionally lose your way to spend extra time together. But if you do happen to get lost, get a hold of yourself before your fear of getting lost is triggered full-blown.

Do not panic too much

Everybody panics when they are in the middle of nowhere. But it is crucial to keep your cool and try not to give in to anxiety too much. Gather the courage to stay calm so you can think clearly.

Check your navigation system

You have your navigation system, so double check it if you got lost. Utilize your tool in order to find your way to where you are bound for.

Call for help

If you are lost in the road, call for help immediately. Call the local police to help you out, or call a friend to guide you. Do not just sit behind the wheel and let your fear overcome you. Move and do something, because being paralyzed with anxiety will not save you.

Ask for directions

Getting lost is not a good thing, but it is a blessing if you happen to get lost in a place where people are around. Ask for directions, but remember to approach only someone who looks decent. Avoid talking to people who looks like they cause chaos in their community. Better yet, if you get lost in a town, go and visit the police station and ask for help.

Conclusion

Getting lost in the road is not easy. It is okay to panic, but you need to wake up and get a grip of your wits.Do not let irrational fear eat you alive. Yes, you have a medical condition of driving phobia and getting lost, but you need to fight it. Engage in treatment activities whether through a professional or by yourself. Keep in mind that you are not the only one who has this kind of anxiety. And people like you are struggling to get over their fear, and if they can do it, so can you.