A plea to high school and college students: Get help and stop hiding
Though I'm no longer as fearful of 'exposure' of my sweating as I used to be, I still avoid doing presentations and situations where I would have to shake hands. This is hurting me at work. They gave me a high-profile assignment last year, and I was told I did a good job. However, my boss decided that I don't have leadership qualities and am not an "influencer." She gave me a lower-rank title, telling me "not everyone can be a leader." All those years sitting on the sidelines are hurting me now. I suspect that I have mannerisms that project my inner anxiety, and I come across as less confident and unsure of myself. I tried to fight her decision, but she said she thinks I will be happier this way. Maybe more comfortable, but not happier.
I'm going to fight this one--take public speaking class or whatever it takes. It's harder now because I have am now a married and have a young child, so I have little free time. I limited myself for such a long time, and I will not have others limit me now.
High school and collage are the best, though not the only, times to build your confidence as a leader and a public speaker. That's why it pains me so much to see high school students agonizing over their hyperhidrosis when there is medical treatment that works. Don't sit on the sidelines like I did. Get the medical help you need, then try drama, student council, debate team...whatever interests you. Once you're comfortable, step up and take a leadership role. Your opinions count as much as others'. Realize that everyone is just as insecure as you are...some, however, are better hiding it than others. The more people with HH who are leaders, the better the world will be for others with HH.
Love,
Tiara
P.S. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." -- Matthew 5:14-16
