I'm a new person- Confrontation and anxiety?

[GuitarPoet]

First off, I'm new to this community, but from what I've seen so far, this looks like a great environment full of amazing people, and I hope that we can all feel a little better here. What I've been noticing more and more is that whenever a confrontation is happening or is about to happen, that feeling of anxiety kicks into turbo. I've been having to physically leave environments where a confrontation is about to happen, even if it does not involve me. But its not always possible to leave, and that is another problem. In some situations, like a classroom or presentation, I can't just get up and flee the scene. Then I get even more anxious and it becomes more and more unbearable until I can't function anymore. Does anyone know of a way to cope in these situations where I can't just leave?

[jkl5500]

My advice is to see yourself as an impartial observer in those tense situations. Don't take sides mentally and get sucked into all the turmoil. Let those other people fight it out. Stay calm and above it all mentally.

[GuitarPoet in reply to jkl5500]

Thank you for the reply, some times I worry more for the other people then for myself, because I don't want anyone else to be hurt. But you are right, I need to not always be involved. Thank you!

[jennicole31]

Hi friend, I am sorry that you are going through this. Have you always been like this? Maybe, there's a root to this problem and your fleeing away is just a coping mechanism.

I am a firm believer in the power of prayer. All I know to do is pray in the Name of Jesus. Have you tried praying or seeking help from your local bible-based church? I know that church counselors can be of good help. I am praying for you!

[GuitarPoet in reply to jennicole31]

Thank you for your response. To your first question I've always definitely been very anxious when it comes to conflict, but it seems like a switch got flipped recently that made it a lot worse.

To your second point, I do pray, and I've been trying to do it more consistently since the anxiety began kicking up. I think talking to somebody at a church sounds like a helpful idea, hopefully it can help. I appreciate the prayers, thank you again.