Mental Health after a car crash

[Wacky Racer]

Nothing to add other than good luck.

In my experience time is a good healer.

[Z064life]

Yeah challenging your thoughts is a well-known tool. For example, if I think the car will suffer a mechanical failure, I tell myself the car is MOT'd/service'd etc. If I think the rain will make me skid, I tell myself that my speed is appropriate (and of course keeping it physically in check), and that I am not going faster than other traffic. Etc...

The problem is, when driving, I should be focused on the road and not this mental battle? Same for relaxation techniques like breathing. Though I remember to breathe and enjoy the music in the car. I keep things sensible (i.e. 70-80), no rash movements on the motorway, etc.

I'm looking into counselling. I did the one course which was intended to just get my confidence up for travelling on motorways and motorways I now have done (ie 100 mile roundtrips). I'm keen for a session at Milbrook where I can explore a couple of things in car behaviour/road surfaces that can be triggering, I think that will help a great deal.

Also i'm looking at support groups etc as just being honest, like in this thread, goes a long way too.

[anonymous-user]

GP here. I’d refer you to an IAPT service. They go by different names so it depends where you are in the UK. You can self refer to most. I’d be keen for them to assess for panic/trauma. I’d discuss a driving confidence building course. There are some affordable ones out there. A four hour block with a professional who is able to nurture your confidence. If you told me you were having panic attacks I’d prescribe a short term course of beta-blockers. Hope that helps.