Stress can affect how we feel physically and emotionally, as well as impair our judgement and our reactions, which isn’t good news when we need to concentrate on something significant, like driving.
It’s important to recognise how you feel and try to relax before getting into the car.
So to help you stay calm behind the wheel, here are some tips on what to do if you feel stressed before driving:
Warning signs of stress
- Easily becoming irritated with colleagues, friends or family
• Feeling distracted, forgetful or moody
• Having racing thoughts
• Not being able to switch off
• Becoming quiet and withdrawn
• Under- or over-eating
• Smoking more, drinking more alcohol or taking drugs
• Tense muscles
• Headaches
• Feeling sick
• Not sleeping well / insomnia
• Getting ill more often
What to do
Go for a short walk around the block to get some fresh air and unwind from the day’s stress. Wait until you feel calm, collected and well enough to head out on your journey. Driving itself can be stressful, especially in rush hour, so if you are already stressed. this is likely to make matters worse.
Try mindfulness and deep breathing before getting behind the wheel. You don’t have to be spiritual to benefit from mindfulness and meditation.
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