How Can I Stop Being Startled?
Published: March 31, 2021 · Last reviewed on this site: 2026-10-30
This answer may be out of date. It was published over 3 years ago. Health guidance changes — check with a doctor or trusted adult.
The question
Dear TeenHealthFX,
hey tfx, I get scared rlly quick. like, when I'm just sitting in class and someone opens the door, I really get startled. it's annoying, do you guys know how to make that less?
Signed: TeenHealthFX
The answer
TeenHealthFX understands how hard it can be to focus in class when you get easily startled. One suggestion we have is to make sure you are seated facing the door. This way you will be able to see when someone opens it and know exactly who they are.
Another suggestion is to try to practice stress reduction activities. At times, the reason we become more easily startled is because our stress response, also known as the fight or flight response is constantly kicked into high gear. If you can try to manage your stress through deep breathing, positive self-talk, exercise, and sleep it will also help reduce how easily startled you can be. We hope this helps.