What if I panic and can't get off the freeway?
If merging into fast traffic, having nowhere to pull over, or feeling hemmed in on a busy road makes your heart race, you're not alone. Freeway or motorway anxiety is common, and you may be perfectly comfortable on local roads right up until the on-ramp.
And if anyone has told you to "just get on with it," you already know it's not that simple.
Why does the freeway feel so different from local roads?
For many people the fear isn't really about driving. It's about feeling exposed, out of control or unable to escape. Freeways bring fast-moving traffic, multiple lanes, few exits, and the sense that stopping or turning back isn't an option.
When does the anxiety kick in?
• Merging into fast traffic or changing lanes
• Long stretches without exits
• Being stuck in heavy traffic with nowhere to pull over
• Large bridges, elevated roads or tunnels linked to the freeway
• Rain, fog or strong wind
• Other drivers at speed pressuring you
Sometimes simply thinking about an upcoming freeway journey brings anxiety days in advance.
What if I have a panic attack?
That's the thought many people can't shake.
What if I can't get off?
What if I lose concentration?
What if I can't cope?
If panic has hit behind the wheel before, you may recognise a racing heart, shaking, sweating, tight chest, dizziness, shortness of breath, an urge to escape, and a foggy, overloaded mind. Experiencing it once can make the next freeway trip feel even harder.
Where does a fear of freeways come from?
Sometimes from an accident, a frightening event or a panic attack at the wheel. Sometimes it arrives unexpectedly, and you feel fine locally but afraid on freeways, bridges or tunnels, anywhere leaving feels limited. Once anxiety appears, the brain can link freeway driving with danger even though you're physically safe, so avoidance grows and confidence shrinks.
How might it be affecting your life?
You might take much longer routes, steer clear of heavy traffic or bad weather, refuse long drives, worry constantly about accidents or losing control, or hand the driving to someone else.
Why does avoiding freeways make it stronger?
It brings relief right away, but teaches the brain that freeways are dangerous. One avoided motorway can turn into a phobia where you avoid bridges, tunnels, traffic jams and eventually driving in general.
What could calm freeway driving look like?
Imagine driving without dread or overthinking, feeling calm, focused and in control. I help people gently overcome the fear, panic and overwhelm linked to motorway and freeway driving, not by forcing you through it but by helping you feel calmer, safer and more confident.
How do I begin?
Sessions run online via FaceTime, WhatsApp, Messenger or Zoom, from anywhere in the world. Email me or call 0409 254 500 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
First I started having anxiety driving through a tunnel and after a panic attack on the freeway, I completely avoided freeways, highways and tunnels all together. This has restricted my daily life and caused me even more anxiety. I was very sceptical after Liz told me that this can be resolved with only a few sessions. After only 2 sessions(!) I am driving comfortably on the freeway again and don't have to plan my routes before driving somewhere. I am so happy and feel like a burden has been lifted off my shoulders.
Liz is such a compassionate and friendly person. I am so glad I have met her. I'm deeply grateful for Liz and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs help.
JW Perth
