**Experts Share Four Practical Ways to Overcome Driving Anxiety Amidst Surge in Online Interest**
For many in the UK and beyond, driving is an essential part of daily life. However, while some people slip comfortably behind the wheel, for others, the prospect triggers considerable anxiety. This phenomenon is not going unnoticed. Data reveals that each month, more than 8,000 people search online for help with ‘driving anxiety’, and across the globe, there has been a staggering 98.6% increase in TikTok searches on the topic within just half a year.
The reach of this issue is apparent in the popularity of social media discussions, where videos tagged “driving anxiety” regularly amass thousands of likes and comments, connecting viewers who share in these struggles. Yet, there exists a different cohort for whom driving is relaxing, as shown by more than 100 million uploads of “relaxing drives” on TikTok. This illustrates the diversity in how individuals experience motoring.
Against this backdrop, the automotive marketplace Autotrader sought expert psychological advice on how to help those who find driving distressing. In interviews with chartered psychologist Dr Anthony Thompson and leading psychotherapist Dr Becky Spelman, several strategies were identified to help people reframe their driving experience into a source of comfort or empowerment, instead of stress.
Dr Thompson highlighted the idea that driving can foster a feeling of autonomy and control for people. “The ability to set your own pace and choose your itinerary offers a powerful sense of independence,” he remarked. For many, these moments behind the wheel can counterbalance feelings of powerlessness that sometimes arise elsewhere in life. Interestingly, studies show extroverted personalities are often more likely to derive enjoyment from driving, especially when undertaking dynamic or challenging journeys.
Dr Spelman, meanwhile, drew attention to the goal-oriented nature of driving, which can be a source of daily achievement. “Each completed journey can build confidence, turning routine commutes into a series of personal successes,” she explained. For some, the sensory experience of driving — such as watching the passing scenery, tuning into music, or simply feeling the car in motion — can establish a state of calm or mindfulness. Those who find driving restful are often more open to new experiences and adaptable in stressful situations.
For individuals who find driving intimidating or unpleasant, the experts have outlined several practical steps:
**1. Gradual Re-engagement:**
Those hampered by past negative experiences or nerves are urged to take small steps. Short drives on quiet roads, preferably at off-peak times, allow confidence to be rebuilt incrementally.
**2. Shift the Narrative:**
Dr Spelman suggests substituting anxious thoughts with positive affirmations. Replacing “I have to get through this traffic” with “This is my time to recharge” can help transform car journeys into opportunities for relaxation.
**3. Establish a Pre-drive Routine:**
Simple rituals such as curating an uplifting playlist, practising mindful breathing, or leaving the house a few minutes earlier can make trips feel less stressful and support a sense of readiness.
**4. Acknowledge Your Preferences:**
Some drivers thrive on company or a lively podcast, while others benefit from silence or calming audio. It’s important for individuals to identify what helps them feel most at ease and tailor their drives accordingly.
Erin Baker, editorial director at Autotrader, observed that driving is often underestimated as a potential source of well-being. “Whether it’s navigating city traffic or cruising down open roads, taking the time to appreciate those moments can yield surprising psychological rewards,” she said. Advances in vehicle safety features and entertainment systems also contribute to more comfortable, less stressful journeys, offering new ways for drivers to relax and find enjoyment behind the wheel.
As online communities continue to grow, those struggling with driving anxiety are increasingly seeking — and finding — support and reassurance from both professionals and their peers. With expert strategies and a willingness to experiment, many are discovering that driving, once a source of dread, can become a much more manageable, even enjoyable, part of everyday routine.