Fear of Driving Applying Opposite Action

The skill of opposite action, which is often used in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), involves acting opposite to an emotional urge or impulse. In the context of dealing with a fear of driving, you might apply opposite action in the following ways:

1. Identify the Fear: First, it’s important to identify the specific fears or anxieties you have related to driving. Do you fear getting into an accident, driving at high speeds, or navigating through traffic? Understanding the source of your fear is crucial for applying opposite action effectively.
2. Act Opposite to the Fear: Once you’ve identified the specific fear, the next step is to intentionally and mindfully act opposite to it. This might involve gradually exposing yourself to driving situations that trigger your fear. For example, if you’re afraid of driving on highways, you could start by taking short trips on quieter roads and gradually work your way up to busier highways.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness can be a helpful tool in managing fear and anxiety. As you engage in opposite action by driving despite your fear, practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, grounding exercises, or focusing on the present moment to help you stay calm and present.
4. Challenge Negative Thoughts: As you engage in opposite action, it’s common for negative thoughts and self-doubt to arise. Practice challenging these thoughts by consciously replacing them with more positive and realistic affirmations. For example, if you catch yourself thinking “I can’t do this,” replace it with “I am capable of handling this situation.”
5. Seek Support: It’s important to seek support from a therapist or trusted individuals as you work on overcoming your fear of driving. They can provide guidance, encouragement, and help you navigate through the process of applying opposite action effectively.
6. Celebrate Successes: As you gradually confront and overcome your fear of driving using opposite action, celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. Recognizing and acknowledging your progress can help build confidence and motivation to continue facing your fear.

Remember that overcoming a fear of driving can be a gradual process, and it’s important to be patient and compassionate with yourself as you work through it. If the fear is severe, consider seeking professional help for additional support and guidance.