What would you call this phobia?

[retrogurl88]

I have this strange irrational fear of riding in other people's cars.  I do it only when necessary, and when I do, I feel like I have to fight down the urge to vomit because the panic is so severe.  One time I wasn't able to fight it and got sick in my friend's car on the way back from the movie theater.  Other than that I have never been involved in any sort of car accident that would explain this... So then why am I so afraid...?  Any tips that might ease the fear?

[gloomy]

I am guessing you dont have a phobia about cars as such its just other peoples cars?

Well phobias can come in all shapes and forms there is even a phobia about balloons recognised!!

I know the best way to treat a phobia is by flooding or in english constantly exposing yourself to the feared thing until you become desensitised obviously this is done in a controlled way with a psychs guidance.  However, I dont fancy that one myself!!!

Can you identify why this might have happened?  Were you in someone elses car when a horrible thing happened?  Or has is just come up for no reason?

I suppose explaining to people you have a phobia about riding in their cars may help a bit so they at least understand your panic.

[retrogurl88]

Your right just other people's cars.

This is something that developed around the time of my fear of getting on a bus for a field trip, in about fourth or fifth grade.  Nothing horrible has ever happened in someone's car.  I guess I don't like the idea of not being in control.

It's hard explaining this phobia to people, I told one of my friends and she was speechless.  She looked at me like I was nuts.

My therapist has tried to work with me.  We are taking it in baby steps.  She suggested short trips.

I guess I'm looking for other ways to relax in the situation.  I feel embarassed even thinking that I have this irrational fear.

[sarahgotsissues]

I am scared to death of riding with other people driving. It's doesn't matter who's car it is in, I just HAVE to be the one driving or I freak out. Maybe you have a fear of not being in control?
That's the conclusion I have come to about my fear of cars and stuff.

[retrogurl88]

This makes sense because I love driving.  I can't wait to get my own car so I can call all the shots.

[Matt]

I have a phobia of just driving with other people period!  My car or theres...  Although I feel better in my car.

[retrogurl88]

Really, have you found anything that helps alleviate your anxiety symptoms?

[Matt]

Really, have you found anything that helps alleviate your anxiety symptoms?

Haha if only it were so simple.  I take Cymbalta and I take lorazepam when needed and that has helped me a lot.  Otherwise its finding a general feeling of well being all the time that willl help you focus on driving without anxiety.  When I get nervous I get nausious and dry mouth so I chew sugar-free gum and keep water on me at all times.  Just take it slow.  Take quick trips to the grocery store or the malll.  Good luck   

[retrogurl88]

Good idea Matt, I need to start with small quick trips, that only take a few minutes.  As a matter of fact, I just got this Anxiety Phobia workbook, from the library and it makes you create a hierarchy of exposing yourself to your phobia.  I will probably give this exposure idea a go.  I hope it works...