There is growing concern about the state of women during the menopause – there are many well-known symptoms – night sweats, brain fog and hot flushes to name but a few – but midlife also has some unexpected side effects, including a sudden fear of driving.

Google searches for “menopausal driving anxiety” shot up 200 per cent last year alone, as more and more women are seeking advice on how to cope with the debilitating symptoms and how to overcome the anxiety.

Some are starting to head to social media in droves to share their personal experiences of living with the life-changing effects of a sudden fear of driving during the menopause too.

People are sharing so that more people understand that this is not an isolated case, that this is a real symptom of perimenopause, and that some people don’t realise that this problem is intrinsically linked to menopause. Others share that they have been feeling anxious while driving for years and have finally found out why! Others are no longer able to drive in rush hour traffic and have to find other means of transport to get around.

No one will ever tell you how most of the symptoms of the menopause change our lives, living in a quiet town where there is no congested traffic, but even the smallest thing, like someone overtaking a car, can be a shock to a menopausal person, so it is a nuisance.

How can I overcome my menopausal fear of driving? Driving consistently, even when faced with short distances, helps to maintain and build confidence. Avoiding driving can exacerbate this anxiety, so regular practice is vital. Practising positive thinking, deep breathing and other relaxation techniques can be effective in helping to manage anxiety.

Making healthy lifestyle choices is also a great way to go! Health experts recommend that maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise and getting enough sleep can have a positive impact on overall health and reduce anxiety levels.