Ok so its really as simple as this...

I passed my test at 19, I have always been pretty hesitant and lacking confidence as a driver but got very few minors in test etc. But I have hardly driven since. opportunities to drive I have avoided, and when I have had to drive places I have panicked and gone over the route time and time again in my head. I remember one very embarrassing day when I had stopped on a very steep hill to get out at the end of a road and Im waiting for a gap in traffic in my mothers car which has a notoriously quick clutch and I stall, not once but three times. And there are like 6 cars behind me and Im narrowly avoiding backing into one. I ended up switching seats with my then bf and he got us out.

So now after uni and not needing to drive, Im getting a car. Seven years on....with no driving. And Im freaked out, completely. I can drive, dont get me wrong when I get into a car even now it feels natural. But my judgement is rubbish atm and I am really panicking that Im going to crash. I know it sounds pathetic, but I just am really worried.

HELP!

Dawniepants

My Goal in life is to be as good of a person as my pug already thinks I am

It doesn't sound pathetic at all and I know what you are feeling as I was like this when I first passed. But you will be fine you have to trust yourself. You can do this. Why not see if you can go for a couple of freasher lessons, It might help you.
If not go on a little drive on a quiet rd a few times first with someone and then on your own.. Build it up slowly you will get there

hth

Hello,

I am in similar situation to yourself. I read your post and was wondering how you are getting on with driving?

I passed my test 9 years ago and didn't start driving straight away (which I should have). I then got given an automatic car which I barely drove. I went for two years without driving at all. The only trips I made were about 3 miles away! Three months ago I took some refresher lessons in a manual because we were going on a long trip and my husband wasn't looking forward to driving it all on his own. I drove for a couple of hours on the way home, it was quiet on the motorway so it was ok-ish.

Subsequently I have only been out on my own a couple of times. Once with my kids in the back, I totally freaked out! Had a panic attack, stalled it twice but did manage to drive it home. Then I went out completely alone, just around the block and I was shaking like a leaf.

I thought I had got rid of my driving demons but having a panic attack with the kids in the back was awful, I came home and cried. I was so disappointed with myself. I have no confidence in my ability.

My husband doesn't 'get it', he loves driving. Even after all the lessons I've had I still feel like I don't know what I am doing. Oh, and the thought of parking sends me into a complete panic!

I'd be interested to hear how you're doing.