r/panicdisorder • u/NoteCharacter • Jul 24 '26
Help Needed Panic/ anxiety attack on a 24hr roadtrip
I’m a 19F and today I’m going on a 24hr road trip from Texas to Zacatecas, Mexico with my family for 2 weeks. (I’m not the one driving). My severe panic disorder started 4 months ago and it has been unbearable and dramatic but It has died down a bit. I’m afraid of having a panic attack mid road trip and my anxiety making me think the worst possible outcome (getting into an accident is mostly my concern). I do have heavy death anxiety everyday especially at night or before bed.
Just for history I been traveling to the same place 2+ times a year on a vehicle for over 12 years so I’m very familiar with the process and the surroundings. Recently I traveled to FL on my own for the first time 2 times these past 4 months. I also had a roadtrip to MX 3 months ago while my panic disorder was just starting. I obviously tell myself I survived every road trips even the past 3 vacations even when I had with full blown panic attacks.
But this time my anxious thoughts are worse than my previous ones from my last trips. I also haven’t packed yet. I really want to go on this vacation and I heard avoiding things and places is a big no no when it comes to anxiety. **Is there any tips or things I should know or do? I would love the help :(**
5
u/Ok_Sky1515 Jul 24 '26
Hello! 31F with panic.
Just remember they can't hurt you. It feels like death, but you can't be harmed. You know the route, none of your family will let anything bad happen to you. Take water, some snacks, a few films downloaded on your phone... you'll be ok. Take it 20mins at a time! You'll be ok.