I am 19 and for my whole life I was emotionally abused by my father. I ran away a year ago and am now realizing my defense mechanisms for certain situations. One of the things I'm trying to work on is speaking up to people if I have an opinion or how I feel or to clear up a situation. I Have a hard time just working up the courage to say even the smallest thing relating to the main topic that is bothering me. I am mostly afraid of the person's reactions to what I have to say, whether they could be sad or mad. Does anyone have suggestions or techniques that could help me gain confidence and not be afraid anymore? Thank you so much.