Question about confession--help please!

[Elizastaci]

I’ve been Catholic all my life–I’m 19 now–and have been to Confession many times.

But for some reason, for the past year or so, whenever I go–I try to once a month–I get really, really nervous. Like I’m a little nervous before, but once I’m actually in there, I start feeling sick and lightheaded and dizzy, and have to keep myself from throwing up or fainting or both. I blacked out once. And since I feel so dizzy I usually forget things I wanted to say, or I just babble on and on.

This happens no matter what parish I’m at…it’s the weirdest thing, because I’m not claustrophobic or anything like that, although I do have a general anxiety problem.

Any ideas? Thanks, and Happy Second Weekend in Advent!!!

 

[LilyM]

I’ve been Catholic all my life–I’m 19 now–and have been to Confession many times.

But for some reason, for the past year or so, whenever I go–I try to once a month–I get really, really nervous. Like I’m a little nervous before, but once I’m actually in there, I start feeling sick and lightheaded and dizzy, and have to keep myself from throwing up or fainting or both. I blacked out once. And since I feel so dizzy I usually forget things I wanted to say, or I just babble on and on.

This happens no matter what parish I’m at…it’s the weirdest thing, because I’m not claustrophobic or anything like that, although I do have a general anxiety problem.

Any ideas? Thanks, and Happy Second Weekend in Advent!!!

Obviously it’s to do with anxiety. Believe you me, I’m 33 and have probably been more times than you’ve had hot dinners, and I still get very nervous on occasion!

Try writing a list beforehand - everything phrased exactly as you wish to say it. That should remove at least some of the anxiety of having to remember everything.

 

[kleary]

Try praying to your gaurdian angel to seek the strength you are needing for this.

If you have a problem going “face to face” try going behind the screen or to a church that still uses confessionals.

Ken

 

[jennyr]

It sounds like you go a bunch, its strange that it makes you so nervous.

Maybe try wearing a rosary or something of that effect when you are in the confessional, or maybe say a prayer beforehand to havethe strength to give a good confession.

At least you still go, which is great!