Hey Gen Z, let’s talk about something that makes us sweat: phone calls. Weird, right? We can slay TikTok dances and send witty texts all day, but answering a call? Panic mode activated. That’s phone anxiety, or as some call it, “telephonophobia.” And guess what? It’s so common now that a college has launched a course to help with it.
Why Phone Anxiety Is a Big Deal
Phone anxiety isn’t just about feeling awkward—it’s a whole mood. For some, it brings on sweaty palms, a racing heart, or even nausea. Liz Baxter, a careers advisor at Nottingham College, says many young adults feel paralyzed at the thought of saying the wrong thing or being judged during a call.
Here’s why: we’re digital pros who thrive on texting and DMs, where we have time to edit, delete, and perfect every response. But phone calls? They’re raw. No emojis, no filters, and no undo button. That lack of control? It’s terrifying.
The College Course That’s Changing the Game
To tackle this modern struggle, Nottingham College has created a course to boost phone confidence. It’s kind of like a crash course in real-world adulting.
The sessions include fun, interactive stuff like role-playing phone scenarios. Think of it as a practice round for job interviews or awkward convos with your boss. With these skills, students can confidently pick up the phone, whether it’s for work or personal growth.
What’s Next?
Let’s face it—Gen Z’s obsession with texting isn’t going anywhere. Breaking up over text? Yep, still a thing. But with courses like this, we might find some balance. Who knows? Phone calls could make a comeback.
So, the next time your phone rings, don’t panic. Take a deep breath, remind yourself you’ve got this, and maybe even answer it. It’s not as scary as it seems!
