With more women courageously opening up about their varied and life-altering symptoms of menopause than ever before, one symptom silently moving into the spotlight in recent years is 'menopause driving anxiety'.
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.
The conversation is also unfolding on platforms like TikTok, where many women have been taking to the platform to share their stories of living with menopause-driving anxiety.
Users raced to the comments to share their similar experiences: "this is me", "I've lost my confidence driving, I try to avoid driving now", "can relate so much" and even "this is what I've recently developed in the past few months".
Julie, 57, spoke exclusively to Nationwide Vehicle Contracts to highlight how menopause can upend even the most mundane aspects of life: "They don't tell you how symptoms of menopause can change your life. I never expected to be scared behind the wheel of my own car," she says. Despite living in a quiet town with minimal traffic, Julie now avoids driving during peak times and long distances due to overwhelming anxiety.
Menopause marks the end of menstrual cycles and comes with well-documented symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. However, its influence often extends into unexpected areas of life, such as driving, revealing the complex and varied ways menopause can impact a woman's sense of independence and confidence.
In a bid to help calm people struggling with menopausal driving anxiety, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has compiled seven actionable tips to help reclaim confidence behind the wheel:
Menopausal women usually passed their driving test more than twenty years ago, so a refresher lesson can help boost confidence behind the wheel. Advanced lessons can vary from motorway lessons to simply navigating roads easily. Talking to an instructor about some of your worries could make you feel better, and they can offer alternative ways to ease fear.
Having a trusted companion in the passenger seat can offer comfort and encouragement, making the driving experience more manageable. They may help to calmly direct you to your destination, offer encouragement whilst navigating traffic and roundabouts, or even be a comforting ear to vent to.
If you fear driving, you may find that driving during rush hour or even in difficult weather conditions can induce more worry, so it's best to avoid driving during these times if you work a 9-5. Driving in less busy times will mean you have fewer issues to worry about and a more peaceful experience. Alternatively, explore public transportation options for stress-free travel during peak hours.
Anyone with driving anxiety should avoid driving on an empty stomach or relying on caffeine. Small things like this can increase your driving fear massively, so before driving, ensure you've eaten to ensure your body doesn't feel anxious.
If you think your driving anxiety is caused by the menopause, it's important to speak to your doctor. Not all driving fears can be fixed simply, so seeking help from a professional can help identify the causes and identify techniques to help you become a confident driver again.
Don't be afraid to open up about your driving anxiety to loved ones. The increasing openness around menopause means you're likely to find understanding and support within your own circle.
Breathing techniques can help you feel calm before driving, and music can drastically affect your mood. Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has created the ultimate playlist for anxious drivers to play when behind the wheel. With songs that only range from 60-80 BPM, which is proven to be the most calming tempo of music, drivers can stream The Road to Inner Calm playlist on Spotify now.
If you recognise the signs of menopause driving anxiety in your life, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Consulting with healthcare providers or mental health professionals can provide you with personalised strategies and support tailored to your needs.
For those looking to delve deeper into this topic, a wealth of resources, from online forums and support groups to expert-led workshops, awaits. Empower yourself with knowledge and support as you navigate this challenge, remembering you're not alone on this journey.
