Menopause anxiety leading to fear of driving for some women
Menopause has many well-known symptoms - night sweats, brain fog and hot flashes to name but a few - but there are also some unexpected side effects of the mid-life period including suddenly developing an anxiety about driving.
Google searches for "menopause driving anxiety" have skyrocketed by 200% in the last year alone, as more women are seeking advice on how to deal with this debilitating symptom.
Others have been heading to social media to share their personal experiences of living with the life-altering impact, commenting under TikTok videos that they too have developed a sudden fear of driving during their menopausal years.
When medical journalist Fiona Clark posted on her @harleystreetemprium Instagram account, which focuses on menopause, posted about ‘vehophobia’ (fear of driving) and 'amexophobia' (fear of being a passenger), she was flooded with comments.
"We need to get it out there that this is an actual symptom of perimenopause because I actually thought at one point that I was going crazy," one woman wrote.
"I had no idea there was a connection to this issue and menopause," another wrote. "Thank you for sharing and raising awareness."
"As someone who has experienced anxiety alongside driving for many years this is so important!" yet another user added.
Julie's first experience of menopause driving fear began two years ago and has now stopped her from driving in rush hour traffic, forcing her to find alternative transport to get to work.
“They don’t tell you how most symptoms of menopause can change your life, but I never expected this, to be scared behind the wheel of my own car," the 57-year-old told Nationwide Vehicle Contracts.
"I live in a quiet town, where we don’t even get much traffic, but I now avoid driving in rush hour and driving any long journeys as it scares the life out of me - even the smallest thing like someone overtaking me can shake me up and I find myself not wanting to drive.
“I'm now on HRT, but I’ve been nervous about driving now for two years, so I worry the fear won’t ever change.”
So what's causing this seemingly irrational fear of getting behind the wheel?
Intimate health and hormone expert Dr Shirin Lakhani says many women going through the menopause don’t just experience physical changes, but mental ones, too.
Due to hormone levels fluctuating during perimenopause and menopause, Dr Lakhani says what were once simple, everyday tasks can turn into something more daunting.
“Driving anxiety can often occur for those with anxious tendencies, which can of course be exaggerated during menopause," she explains. "Many have anxiety surrounding it due to the danger you are putting yourself in when driving. And although for most people they don’t feel too worried about it, during menopause anxieties can increase about everything, even the things we once thought little of."
But there are other factors at play, aside from anxiety.
"Menopause affects the nervous system, potentially impacting reaction times, balance, and overall coordination," explains Kate Toby, health and wellness expert at Zego Car Insurance. "These physical changes can make women feel less in control and more vulnerable on the road."
There's also often an increased awareness of ageing and mortality.
"This heightened awareness can contribute to a general sense of vulnerability and fear, including when driving," she continues.
And having a sudden loss of confidence behind the wheel can also contribute.
"Menopause can lead to a decline in self-confidence. Everyday activities, including driving, may feel more daunting, and the fear of making mistakes or having an accident can become more pronounced," XX adds.
How to tackle a fear of driving during menopause
Regular practice
Continuously driving, even for short distances, helps maintain and build confidence. "Avoiding driving can worsen anxiety, so regular practice is essential," Toby explains.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
Practicing mindfulness, deep breathing, and other relaxation techniques can help manage anxiety. "These methods can be particularly useful before and during driving," Toby explains.
Healthy lifestyle choices
Toby suggests maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep can positively impact overall health and reduce anxiety levels.
Share the journey
Having a confident driver in the passenger seat while you’re driving can also help to ease discomfort. "They may help to calmly direct you to your destination, offer encouragement whilst navigating traffic and roundabouts, or even just be a comforting ear to vent to," explains an expert from Nationwide Vehicle Contracts.
Professional support
Seeking support from a therapist or counsellor can provide strategies to manage anxiety. "Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), in particular, can be effective in addressing specific fears related to driving," Toby adds.
Driving courses
Enrolling in a refresher driving course can help regain confidence and improve driving skills. "These courses offer practical advice and provide a safe environment to practice driving," Toby says.
Open communication
Discussing fears and anxieties with family and friends can provide emotional support. "Sometimes, just talking about these concerns can alleviate some of the stress associated with driving," Toby explains.
"By understanding these contributing factors and implementing practical strategies, women can regain their driving confidence and continue to navigate the roads safely and comfortably during menopause," she adds.
Menopause: Read more
How the menopause impacts mental health, according to experts (Yahoo Life UK, 4-min read)
Top 5 menopause myths busted by leading experts (Yahoo Life UK, 5-min read)
Why acne and rosacea are common during menopause (Yahoo Life UK, 4-min read)
