Has anyone else had anything like this? If so how did you handle it?

I'm fine except for on the highway. This morning on my short drive to work I got to the point that I was shaking pretty bad and barely managed the last 2 miles to the exit ramp. I've had occasional flutters for the past 4 months or so, but nothing nearly this bad. I think if I drove an automatic vehicle I might have lost control this morning...white knuckling the stick and wheel got me through it. I ended up taking a route twice as long (time wise) through the city instead of taking the highway home after work today.

Thing is, I never had this issue until about 4 months ago. Now, some days, no problems at all. Others, a little nervous. Today was just over the top. I used to drive 20+ mph over the limit and weave in and out with no issues at all. Yes, I know that isn't exactly responsible driving, but I never thought "I could make a small mistake and be dead in a second" and got myself so worked up.

Maybe stress is a factor? It started somewhere around when I moved to a new position at work with more responsibilities which was only a few weeks after my brother was diagnosed with cancer.

Anyway, just hoping for someone who can relate, or has dealt with this and found a solution that worked for them. I'd rather not end up on some kind of medication for it as it doesn't often get bad enough that I can't bear it but today scared me a little bit. That and highway driving is really the only time I get the feeling. It's only in that very limited situation, not an all around problem.

Edit:

I'm not exactly new to driving either, I've been doing it for 12 years, and in fact within 10 minutes of getting my learner's permit my dad had me on the highway. Kind of a "get it over with now and it won't scare you later" thing. Well, except now I'm scared 12 years later.

I know you don't want drugs, and remember that you can refuse them if offered, but i think you should see a doctor. I mean, at the moment it is on highways, but what if it happens at a crowded junction next time? I can't relate - sorry I have never experienced anything like this - but from what I understand it is almost always stress related as you suggested. Your doctor may refer you for counselling, perhaps, or some other form of cognitive therapy. If it saves you from having and accident, and also if it gives you back your freedom to drive without fear and to be able to use highways again, it might be worth giving a shot.

Sorry, I would listen to other people over me as I dont really have the experience in it, I just wanted to offer my possibly ill-informed opinion as I'm a big advocate of seeing the professionals when something like this happens.

I'm sorry to hear about your brother. The best of luck to him, you and your family with that.