Name That Symptom / Question
Published: October 29, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I blush all the time, even when I am NOT embarrassed. This causes many problems for me. First, I don't raise my hand in school, because my face turns beet-red. This may lower my class participation grade. Second, I never socialize with people in fear of my face turning red. My face also turns red when it is over 70 degrees or warmer out, even if I want to speak in class and talk to people, I can't. I know you will say this can be cured and it is only because I'm shy, but this problem is extremely bothersome. I don't know what to do, but I think it is a MAJOR problem. My mom says that it isn't a big deal and won't take me to the doctor. What should I do? For example, today, I was laughing and my face turned red (like it ALWAYS does when I laugh) and I got made fun of in school. Please help!
Signed: Blushing Is Taking Over My Life
Dear Blushing Is Taking Over My Life,
Blushing is involuntary and unfortunately not much can be done to control it. It can feel embarrassing, but you are not the only one who blushes. All people do, only some of us hide it better than others due to our complexions. Fair skinned people are more likely to overtly display their blushing due to their coloring.
Often blushing is linked with the feelings of shyness and embarrassment that are in our minds. Blushing may in fact be due to that and you can try counteracting it by confronting these associations. You may want to try relaxation techniques and visualization techniques of yourself not blushing. If you experience something like raising your hand in class without being self-conscious you can, perhaps stop blushing. If you see yourself blushing in your mind, why can't you see yourself not blushing? Are there factors that influence your blushing?
It may take time for your blushing to go away. Some individuals grow out of it and others sometimes retain the trait. Since you are truly concerned, FX recommends seeing your doctor and maybe a therapist. A therapist may be able to help you confront emotional situations that trigger blushing and help you realistically assess how others perceive you. If you are able to overcome the anxiety that triggers blushing, its frequency and intensity will decrease and you will be able to function in settings that were previously threatening. If you continue to struggle, a therapist could work with a doctor who could assess whether medication would be beneficial.
Discuss the situation with your mom and explain the extent of your blushing. Let her know that you want to see a doctor and a therapist. Show her this question and answer and maybe that will let her know how serious you take this issue. If you discuss it with her in a calm and logical manner she will see your point of view.
Check out our response to Serious Blushing for more information on this topic.
If you need a therapist and live in northern
Signed: TeenHealthFX
While 93% of teenage women report that their first intercourse was voluntary, one-quarter of these young women report that it was unwanted. 
