Psychiatrist offers advice on managing I-85 stress

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Gwinnett County commuters have some of roughest, toughest Interstate 85 commutes amid the bridge-collapse reconstruction.

“Well, people just aren’t as patient as they should be,” said commuter Debbie Halcomb, noting the honking horns and drivers cutting others off in lanes.

“It’s why I take the bus so I don’t have to deal with traffic and people driving crazy,” commuter Steven Hardwick said.

These experiences are why a local psychiatrist is offering a few words of wisdom and warning against road rage.

“You need to be mentally prepared for it,” said Dr. David Purselle, who owns Georgia Psychiatric Consultants in Decatur. “This is causing a lot of stress for people spending many hours in traffic that they wouldn’t normally have to deal with.”

Purselle said there are a few simple steps we can take during the longer daily commutes.

Step one: breathe.

“Inhaling for four, holding for seven and exhaling for eight,” Purselle said. “That can be very relaxing.”

Step two: listen.

“There actually is a lot of good data out there showing that calming, relaxing music can reduce your blood pressure, reduce your pulse and just help you feel less stressed in general,” he said.

Finally, take in the here and now.

“Pay attention to the other cars around you,” Purselle said. “Listen to the sirens in the background. Try to pay attention to your foot on the petal. These types of things can get your mind off the negative emotions that you’re experiencing.”

Commuters agree it’s all about your attitude.

“We have to make a choice between violence and peace,” said David Sharp. “Those are the choices that we make every day.”

“I mean, this too shall pass.," Halcomb added.

Cox Media Group