Worries, Fears and Anxiety Disorders / Question
Published: December 10, 1999
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have a major problem with confrontation. I'm not very comfortable saying how I feel about something or someone. I get nervous and my palms get sweaty whenever I'm the center of attention. Sometimes I feel myself shake. What is this?
Signed: Confrontation & Nervousness
Dear Confrontation & Nervousness,
Many people, especially teenagers do not like confrontation or being the center of attention. Unfortunately, it becomes an important part of life that you will learn to deal with. TeenHealthFX is concerned about how your react to these feelings. Being very nervous, getting sweaty palms and shaking are all signs of panic attacks (click here to read more about them).
It sounds like you may benefit from talking to a counselor about how you are feeling. A counselor may refer you to a psychiatrist who can evaluate you medically and may prescribe medication to help your symptoms. Also, therapy will help you to deal with your anxieties and give you the skills you need to overcome your fears regarding confrontation and being the center of attention.
Sometimes these feelings you are describing can make you feel upset and depressed or are even too much for you to handle. If you feel like this, get help immediately from a trusted adult. If you live in Northern New Jersey, call the 24-hour CRISIS HOTLINE at (973) 540.0100. If you live outside Northern New Jersey, call the National Hope Line at (800) SUICIDE.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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