answer:I have very similar issues. As a teenager, I was never afraid to be out at night, completely alone. Now I’m a quivering mess if I have to go out after, say, 10 PM. I think it may very well have to do with the fact that motherhood makes us responsible for someone else’s life, and if we were to be injured/killed we’d be leaving them ‘defenseless’. It makes us more aware of our own mortality. I don’t let this fear keep me from doing what I need to do, though… I just feel afraid while I’m doing it. If you’re at the point that it’s interfering with your quality of life, it’s become a phobia. The good news is: Phobias are very treatable! A cognitive behavioral therapist could help you a lot. If you go and they do help you, be sure to report back. I’d really love to not be afraid of this anymore. Good luck!