Driving as a stress reliever

manstickcar

I suffer from pain, lots of it. Mostly unexplained. Yes I have joint problems, but since I've been in this state I've put on weight - so maybe that's not helping. The pain is in my muscles, joints, even my head at times. I struggle to walk and concentrate or even get out of bed most days, but some days I can walk quite well for a little while, (as long as I don't fall over), 20 - 50 metres before needing a brief rest. When I get anxious the pain increases and stress can make it unbearable. I have been diagnosed with Centralised Pain, Hyperalgesia, Neuropathy and symptoms of Fibromyalgia, Anxiety and induced Depression. Cold hurts and even the pressure of wearing clothes can be agony on a bad day.

However, driving doesn't hurt as much. Sure, I have had to go to an automatic, and it hurts to get in and out of a car, but the actual act of driving is far less stressful that just sitting and / or walking. If anything, as my only means of getting out and seeing the world, it feels safe.Even traffic jams are a blessing because they mean more time in the car. At the same time, I don't have to interact face to face with people, which reduces my anxiety.

Am I alone in this? Is this just another sort of stress reliever? Does anyone else feel the same way?

steve51

Hi @manstickcar

A very very big welcome to you today.

It’s great to meet you this afternoon.

I’m very very sorry to hear about your “Pain”

I have got “Chronic Pain”
all the way down my “right hand side”

Please please let me know if I can help you in anyway????

CockneyRebel

Hi manstickcar and welcome

I fully understand how being in your car can be a comfort. For me being in my car is one of the few places I feel safe, it is my world and I can control everything in it

CR

manstickcar

Thanks for the welcome folks. It's reassuring to be in contact with people who share similar problems to me.

steve51

Hi @manstickcar

No probs my “Friend” it’s my pleasure!!!!

“Please please Dive in”