- 98.6% rise in ‘driving anxiety’ searches on TikTok
- However, driving has been shown to improve cognitive health and reduce depression
- Psychologists share advice for embracing the mental load of driving
Despite driving being an everyday necessity for many of us, the amount of joy it brings varies enormously from person to person.
Over 8,000 people a month search online for the term “driving anxiety,” and globally, TikTok has seen a 98.6% rise in searches for the term in just six months. One ‘driving anxiety’ video alone has over 129,000 likes from users who relate to the stress of driving. And yet, TikTok also has an enormous pro-driving fan base, with over 102.3 million video uploads of ‘relaxing drives’.
Autotrader interviewed psychologists Dr Anthony Thompson and Dr Becky Spelman to find out why driving can help improve mental health, and get advice on how to reframe the experience if it does feel stress-inducing.
The psychological benefits of driving
- “Driving can provide individuals with a sense of control and independence, both of which are known to enhance well-being,” says Dr Anthony Thompson, a chartered psychologist. Having the freedom to pick your own route and set your own pace isn’t just practical, it’s powerful. People who need a sense of control in their lives, may find that getting behind the wheel more often helps create a regular feeling of autonomy and power.
- Whilst driving is often a solo adventure, there is a wealth of studies pointing out the correlation between high driving enjoyment and extrovert personalities1. It’s not just social gatherings that can invigorate an extrovert mind; high speeds or complex driving routes are also more likely to be viewed as a positive experience by personality types who thrive on external stimulation.
- The goal-oriented nature of driving is another strong factor in helping it feel like a pleasurable experience. “The act of driving encourages routine and purpose” explains Dr Becky Spelman; consistently completing successful drives day after day helps to build a sense of confidence through these daily achievements.
- Driving is also an inherently mindful activity and may consciously or subconsciously become quite a meditative experience for people. People who find driving relaxing may be more open to new experiences and more likely to have an open-mindset “The sensory experiences of driving – watching scenery change, listening to music, or feeling the motion of the vehicle – can create calming effects. For some drivers, these elements act as forms of mindfulness, grounding them in the present moment.” explains Dr Becky Spelman.
- Studies have suggested2 that older adults who stop driving tend to experience poorer physical, cognitive and social health, and higher rates of depression, than those who keep on motoring.
How to reframe driving into a positive experience
Not everyone hops in the car with a smile. The rise of ‘driving anxiety’ searches on social media shows that for many, driving can trigger a number of unwelcome emotions. Here’s what the experts suggest doing if you find driving a negative experience psychologically:
- Gradual re-engagement: If bad experiences or nerves hold you back, try short, low-pressure drives, perhaps on quieter routes or at off-peak times, to rebuild confidence step by step.
- Reframe the narrative: Dr Spelman recommends swapping thoughts of “I have to survive this traffic” to “This is my moment to reset.” Simple positive self-talk can shift stress into an opportunity for calm.
- Create a pre-drive ritual: Whether it’s picking a feel-good playlist, a breathing exercise, or leaving five minutes earlier to avoid time pressure, these small routines can anchor you in control.
- Tune into your preferences: Extroverts might boost enjoyment by taking a friend along or listening to an upbeat podcast, but those more sensitive to overstimulation may prefer silence or guided meditation apps during the ride.
Erin Baker, Editorial Director at Autotrader, comments:
“We often take the driving experience for granted, but there’s real psychological power in those moments behind the wheel – whether it’s the sense of achievement from navigating some tricky traffic or finding a meditative moment on an open road. Modern vehicles now add to that wellbeing boost: drivers can lease cars with smarter safety features and seamless infotainment systems, which means less stress and more ‘flow’ on every journey. It’s never been easier to rediscover the simple joy of hitting the road.”