Humiliation, Blushing
How to Overcome Embarrassment
Many people will bounce back from an embarrassing incident quickly. Others who are more sensitive may develop feelings of anxiety or panic whenever they think about it, which can be often if they are prone to rumination. They may even try to avoid specific social interactions for fear of being humiliated again. Just one embarrassing experience can be detrimental to someone’s confidence and sense of self-worth over a long period of time. Great embarrassment can lead to anxiety, depression , and, in extreme cases, the impulse to self-harm .
One of the best ways to get over embarrassment is to laugh about it. In fact, people who can shrug laugh off an embarrassing moment are generally viewed as more trustworthy, likable, and sociable. Realizing that everyone makes mistakes can help. Gaining some perspective about the real weight of the mistake and how much people actually noticed it is valuable as well.
Getting over humiliation can be tricky. First, recognize that you’re not alone: Many people have had similar experiences, and you can learn from how they responded. Call upon your support network. Though it may be tempting, think twice before you lash out, and avoid hiding out. Try to view the humiliating incident as an opportunity to build resilience .
Embarrassment (not unlike shame) frequently occurs when you worry too much about what others think of you. One way to ease these fears is to focus less on yourself and more on others, trying to be kind and considerate. In addition, you can learn to develop “attentional control,” so you can focus on the positive instead of wallowing in embarrassment.
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