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These Two Words Can Be More Offensive Than You Realize
My post-concussion syndrome often made driving difficult. Some days, it made it impossible.
The concussion damaged my vestibular system and left me with vision problems, a rare form of neural dizziness called PPPD, and numerous other issues. Because of this, driving caused severe panic attacks. My body already thought it was moving 24/7, so riding in a car made my brain even more confused.
Before each car ride, I doused myself in essential oils hoping the scent of lavender and bergamot would soothe my dysregulated nervous system. I added calming songs to my playlist, did deep breathing, and practiced my anti-anxiety affirmations.
“I am a safe driver. I am a wonderful driver. Driving comes naturally to me,” I repeated, teeth clenched, as tears streamed down my face. Walmart felt like it was hours away even though it was a one-mile trip.
My friend knew this, and I thought she understood. She didn’t.
“It’s only a 20-minute drive,” she said when I explained that I couldn’t drive to her house.
I told her I could barely handle a trip down the street, let alone a 20-minute drive that required me to take multiple highways.
