When it comes to driving, some people may experience overwhelming anxiety. This anxiety, also known as vehophobia, may prevent them from getting behind the wheel and leading an otherwise normal life. If you have this type of fear or anxiety, there are some options that might help you get into the driver's seat and overcome your feelings. Here is a closer look at a few of those options.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy

Cognitive behavior therapy is a type of therapy that helps you address your negative feelings toward driving. By addressing these negative thoughts or incorrect assessments of the task, you can begin to feel more confident behind the wheel. You may discuss the root causes of the problem, but your therapy will be focused on the thoughts you associate with driving, such as a fear of causing an accident or a fear of becoming lost in a place you are unfamiliar with. Look for a certified psychotherapist with experience treating your specific type of anxiety and be sure you feel comfortable with your choice of provider. Ask for a consultation before beginning therapy so that you can discuss the therapist's approach as well as what you hope to accomplish with the therapy.

Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy is a type of behavior therapy that addresses your fears and anxiety by exposing you to the situations you normally try to avoid. For a driving phobia, your therapist might use virtual reality to immerse you in uncomfortable driving situations without putting the safety of others in jeopardy. However, exposure therapy can be as simple as talking about the events that lead up to your fear. For example, if your anxiety is a result of a serious car crash when you were young, your therapist may want to expose you to the feelings of that trauma to help you get past it. As with a cognitive behavior therapist, you'll want to find a therapist who specializes in your type of anxiety as well as with exposure therapy treatments.

Meditation

If your anxiety gets more intense when you are in or around cars, or if you feel panicked at the very thought of driving, you may want to consider meditation. Meditation that includes slow, mindful breathing and relaxing of the body can help you begin to feel less anxious. You can use this time to imagine yourself driving without issue down a familiar street, or you can simply focus on your breathing to stay calm. Consider a quick meditation session when you get behind the wheel to drive and don't be afraid to pull over and meditate if you become overwhelmed as you drive. Even if you choose one of the other therapies listed above to help with your driving anxiety, you can also incorporate meditation into your plan to get back on the road.

Find a psychotherapist near you to discuss what type of anxiety therapy would best suit you.