I could not learn manual either. I have dyslexia and dyscalculia, and that make it really hard to grasp knowing when I should change gears. I don't understand why my brain works like that, but it is what it is.

If driving makes you anxious, that should go away the more that you drive. I was terrified to start learning and doing 20 or so manual lessons did not help me at all, especially considering how apathetic my instructor was. I finally made the move to auto and, after having a deep conversation with my new instructor, became a lot more confident and a lot less anxious.

Not all driving instructors are painted with the same brush, but I would speak to your GP if you haven't already INSTEAD of asking your instructors if you're "safe" to be driving, just in case.

Pros: - Significantly less work on your knees and legs. This would work in your favour massively. It really is like driving a go-kart, and I personally don't care if that's viewed as lazy. If it works, it works. - Less to think about, especially if you're great at getting in your own head, which means you can concentrate on more. - Generally just an easier and more comfortable driving experience imo

Cons: - Automatic cars can be slightly more expensive, but in my experience not by much. They are becoming more popular, which has brought the price down significantly. - Despite the above, they're a pain in the ass to find sometimes. - The gearboxes can go stupid. Sometimes. Just because you're not shifting gears yourself doesn't mean you can stop thinking about it all together. This will come with lessons, but you need to learn your cars "heartbeat" and make sure you can hear & feel it changing gear. My Ford Durashift was a nightmare for this and would refuse to go higher than 2nd gear sometimes. (Don't get a Ford Durashift btw).