PLEASE HELP

Ok..so this is what you need to do tomorrow…number 1 is to go no matter how bad your anxiety is because that’s what it’s trying to do make you feel like ur going to do something when in reality you are not if you avoid going to the job it will get worse by making a cycle where YOU won’t be able to drive over intrusive thoughts so you have to break the cycle. Number 2 if you get really bad panic attacks bring a small spray bottle with you and wrist band anytime you feel it coming splash urself with the mist.. Number 3 do not argue with ur thoughts LET THEM SIT IN don’t try to reason with them or prove them wrong just accept them you will not get trapped in ur car or jump out. Number 4 you are not alone and you will push through!! 🎀

I'd make sure you have the window a bit down when it gets hot or you get tired. If you see someone be an idiot, give them all the room to be one. Listen to music that will keep you awake (no lullabies). Bring drinks that ideally you don't need 2 hands for. If you are going to eat, have them easily accessible so you're not having to take your attention away from the road. If you feel stressed, drop a little speed within reason and do some grounding techniques like read a number plate or count how many red cars there are for about 30 secs and that should bring you back to the present. You can also do breathing exercises but I wouldn't suggest doing big over exaggerated ones as it can make you feel light headed.

I had car OCD too my friend, it took me a while to get over it but I am definitely free now. I want you to know that you’ve been extremely brave to accept this job and you going there by car is definitely a huge step forward towards recovery. Good job!!! Some tips I used: 1. I’d tell myself “just one more mile” every single time I got the urge to stop the car or do anything. Of course I never listened to my intrusive thoughts because, just like when you’re running and want to stop, I pushed the limit forward. The idea is to say “yeah I’ll do that, just one more mile”, you’re basically lying to your OCD. 2. I’d eat candies or drink sweetened drinks high in calories. My fear was to faint in the car, but sugar in general can wake you up, kinda boost your mood and make you more prone to fight with OCD. 3. I used to talk to friends via voice message or a call when I was in the car. Instead of listening to music, which meant I was by myself, I talked to them so I felt like I was in company, hence safe. What’s more, I kinda felt pressured not to have a panic attack with them on the phone because it would kinda embarrass me, mines are pretty heavy iykyk. 4. When you can, practice driving with someone in the car. Yes, I was scared that me fainting or having a panic attack while on wheels would harm them too, but it also awoken me to the responsibility to drive safely with them. Ultimately, this is what worked for me. I hope you manage to get to work and please update us!! You can do this! ✨