How to avoid nerves on your driving test

The word 'test' can ignite all sorts of emotions in many of us. The thought of having someone judge our abilities and/or performance, in whatever situation, can bring out the best or worse in us. Some thrive in the intensity and challenge of been put under a 'test', whilst others freeze in a state of extreme anxiety. Driving tests can, and do, affect people in a similar way. What to do if you are one of those people severely affected by the pressure, stress and anxiety of taking a driving test?

Firstly, and this may seem obvious, look at why you are anxious. Sometimes anxiety can be caused by the fact that you don't trust yourself to actually pass the test. This could mean that you may not, in fact, be ready to take the test yet. If this is the case then take your time learning more. Do not try to rush yourself by taking a driving test earlier. Remember driving is a life-long skill, so take it easy and get it right. There is no need to pressurise yourself by rushing into taking a test before you are truly ready for it. Don't let your friends, classmates or siblings pressurise you to do so either. Everyone learns at their own unique pace. 

Secondly, if you are ready but still find that on your test, you keep being overwhelmed by nerves and anxiety, try alternative methods to help you calm down and remain focused. Deep breathing exercises have been proven to lower heart rate and reduce anxiety. You can also ensure you take other simple measures before your test date such as eating properly, sleeping well as well as using positive affirmations. Other fairly simple and easy to use non-medication methods includes using EFT (tapping),  visualising the desired result rather than focusing on possibility of failing. 

                                          

                                                   The EFT (tapping) method

Thirdly, in the extreme cases whereby none of the usual calming methods, (such as those mentioned above) work, then you might want to try some over the counter drugs or remedies to help you. Although some people have reported success in combating the severe nerves by taking Kalms, make sure to speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking them. Kalms are designed to deal with depression, anxiety as a long term illness rather than a short term situation such as a driving test. As such even if you intend to take Kalms tablets, you have to make sure that you allow enough time from taking them and the date of your test in order for you to see any real improvements. It is recommended that you take them for at least two weeks before the test. Also beware that Kalms do have a relaxing effect, which could make you sleepy! You certainly don't want to be sleepy during your practical driving test. 

Kalms website

A common remedy for treating temporary acute anxiety is Rescue Remedy. This is a herbal alternative that have proven effective to some users. Again, if you do choose to use it, make sure that you try it at least a week or so before your test. This will allow you time to see if it is working for you or not and also observe any side effects if you should experience them. Others have found no change in using Rescue Remedy and have branded it nothing more than a placebo. So make sure you allow your self time to see if it works or not.

Rescue Remedy site

Finally for the very extreme end of the nervous spectrum; those who literally freeze or have severe shakes, the only solution is to see your doctor. Your local GP should be able to prescribe to you a beta-blocker called Propranolol, which helps to lower heart rate and steady your nerves without affecting your concentration. If you do decide to do this, your GP will first check your health to make sure that you can take the tablet. You will then be prescribed a lower dose of the beta-blocker, which is to be taken an hour (or so) before your test. Propranolol is safe to take and was used by snooker players to deal with nerves and shaking during championships.

Remember that if the nerves are getting in the way of your driving test, don't feel ashamed of that fact as you are not alone.  Try to find a sensible way to deal with them and good luck.