cram315
05-06-2008, 09:41 PM
This is debilitating.
I cannot drive over certain bridges.
I thought it was just me but when I spoke to another woman my age, she said the same thing. She fears turning off the bridge and having no control over it. The same as me.
Even driving over a bridge with someone, my hands and feet sweat. You cannot talk and don't change lanes I flip out.
What is going on? I need to stop this.
If the bridge is small and has lots of railing I am fine but if I am driving and the bridge looms in front of me with small side rails or cement, I freak and freeze.
Help me!!!
I cannot drive over certain bridges.
I thought it was just me but when I spoke to another woman my age, she said the same thing. She fears turning off the bridge and having no control over it. The same as me.
Even driving over a bridge with someone, my hands and feet sweat. You cannot talk and don't change lanes I flip out.
What is going on? I need to stop this.
If the bridge is small and has lots of railing I am fine but if I am driving and the bridge looms in front of me with small side rails or cement, I freak and freeze.
Help me!!!
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violet312s
05-07-2008, 01:21 AM
I feel your pain. I have exactly the same issue. I feel like I'm going to fall off the side. If the sides are high and well railed I freak out less, but those overpasses with only a 2 foot cement rail utterly freak me out. I avoid them if they are more than a 5 second ride to cross them. High overpasses with a curve? No way.
Love to hear other's tips on how to get over this irrational fear.
Love to hear other's tips on how to get over this irrational fear.
Happy Days
05-07-2008, 06:08 PM
I suffer with anxiety and panic attacks for years. I take medications. I don't know the solution however just wanted to say I also suffered from the same problem years ago. I live in a large city and there are a lot of very high over passes and bridges. I would ride out of my way to avoid the bridge. I experienced the same panic feelings, sweating, shaking and scared to death. I am sure there probably are some breathing or imagery techniques that you can do. Try to find a therapist who may be able to help.
cram315
05-07-2008, 06:52 PM
My one doctor recommended I take a xanax. I haven't tried it yet.
Xanax doesnt make me sleepy. But I am always fearful that this one time it will.
Anyone else out there? I really need an answer.
Xanax doesnt make me sleepy. But I am always fearful that this one time it will.
Anyone else out there? I really need an answer.
marian100
05-12-2008, 01:07 PM
Apparently this is a common fear. I will not drive on the expressway and I will not drive on a bridge over water. Those big open iron structures give me the willies. I was doing better until that bridge collapse last year. Shortly after that we drove to Kentucky and we have to cross two rivers to get there. I had to take a xanax. I don't think I will ever be able to do that. Godbless
CSense
05-12-2008, 03:19 PM
I'm afraid of bridges too. I hate walking over them (I run across or walk fast looking straight forward to get across). When it's windy, it's a nightmare. When I drive over a bridge, I try not to think about it and focus on the road and slow down. That seems to work for me.