Did you hear the term “ideopathic craniofacial erytheme?” This is a medical term to describe severe facial blushing that can be easily triggered.
From time to time in my clinical work with clients struggling with social phobia/anxiety I hear the question: Can you still help me even if I have ideopathic craniofacial erytheme? My answer is: YES.
Uncontrollable facial blushing is what I refer to as “primary or uncontrollable pain.” Any behavioral efforts trying to hide or suppress it (like wearing a turtleneck sweater or wearing significant amounts of make up) won’t have any positive outcomes; in fact, it could be the opposite because those actions could not only add more anxiety but also hinder your ability to focus in other activities, like social gatherings.
It’s a different behavioral response to this unpredictable facial blushing that could make room for success: let it be.
As an experiment, try to notice how much effort you spend in monitoring what’s happening in your face. What could happen if you shift the focus of your attention into the person in front of you?
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Featured image: http://anewscafe.com/2012/02/27/faccia-bella-beautiful-face-the-glow-factor/
