Ever feel like you’re ready to explode at a minor inconvenience when you’re stuck in traffic? We’ve all been there! Studies have shown that it’s commonplace to feel stressed, anxious, and want to lash out in heavy traffic. Road rage is real, and research by the American Psychological Association links prolonged exposure to congestion with heightened frustration, which can lead to impulsive decisions and taking risks on the road. Another study from ScienceDirect shows how traffic delays can cause cognitive overload, making it more difficult for drivers to focus and react in a normal way.
South African Roads: Traffic and Stress
We are all familiar with the daily struggle of traffic congestion, and some of the biggest contributors to our gridlock include poor road infrastructure, road works, and reckless driving. In many cases, it’s a reality that we have become used to. South Africa has even been ranked in the top 10 most traffic-congested countries in the world!
The psychological impact of sitting in traffic goes beyond mere frustrations behind the wheel—it affects productivity, mental well-being, and even physical health due to prolonged exposure to stress hormones! One study in 2017 looked at health distress amongst drivers in Sharjah in the UAE caused by long driving hours and traffic congestion. Some effects included participants feeling greater stress and nervousness, but it also made study participants feel the physical effects like back pain, leg pain, and headaches.
How To Reduce Risks
More stress on the roads translates to aggressive behaviour like honking, tailgating and risky overtaking, which can lead to road accidents. Just being stuck in traffic can make us feel powerless and that frustration can make us ‘deal with it’ in hazardous ways, like changing lanes when there’s half a gap.
Here are some better coping strategies to stay calm and in control:
- A Different Perspective
While we want to scream at the taxi driver or speed up a little to make the orange traffic lights, we must accept that traffic is part of the daily commute. Stressing or rushing won’t make it go away.
- Tune In
Listen to calming music, your favourite podcast, or audiobooks to keep your mind engaged and relaxed. Always remember to pre-download your episodes or playlists so you’re not scrolling on your phone while driving.
- Plan Your Route
If you can, leave home or your workplace earlier and use navigation apps to find alternative routes if there happens to be traffic congestion on the way. - Defensive First
Stay aware, keep a safe following distance and avoid engaging with aggressive drivers in traffic.
- Breathe and Relax
Simple breathing exercises can help reduce stress and keep you focused on safety.
An Accident Plan That Helps You and Your Family
Despite our best efforts to drive carefully, be patient, and do all the right things in traffic, accidents can still happen. When they do, the last thing we want to worry about is whether we’ll get proper medical treatment if we’re injured. That’s where we come in. accidentANGELS plans guarantee private hospitalisation in the event of a road accident, with no need for medical aid. This means quality emergency care without the financial burden.
Note: Try to understand your triggers of stress when you’re on the road and implement safer driving habits. Together, we can all contribute to reducing road risks.
Stay safe, stay calm, we’ll take care of the rest!
