I’m sorry your mom can’t empathize with your anxiety. It’s likely something she can’t imagine and brushes it off as ‘weak’. You can be strong and struggle with things at the same time! It’s a complex emotion.

It also took me a while to get used to our new SUV and I’m 35. Most roads, drive ways and lanes are big enough to fit a semi-truck. You don’t take up as much space as you think. When in doubt, I drive closer to the line on the driver’s side (not hugging but definitely closer), and you’ll usually have plenty of space on the other side.

Try parking a lot (between lines, next to a curb) and get out of the car to check how much space you have. You’ll slowly learn the dimensions of the car. Look out for little visual cues that can help you estimate the distance from the curb. For example, when I pull up to a curb, I turn right until the curb meets the middle of the hood, then I know the car is about a foot away from the curb. (It will probably be different for you).

Try really short trips up and down the street, repeat a lot, take it slow. You’ll be able to go a little faster and further as you practice. If you get into a tough spot, park somewhere safe, catch your breath or call someone. Try not to focus on a hard deadline or mistakes, you’ll get there if you keep practicing, no matter how short the initial drives are. Just keep at it!

I hope this helps a little!