Classes with public speaking/presentations, severe anxiety, how do you deal?

LeastComplicated
Tue, 22 Aug 2017 21:18:30 +0000

I had severe anxiety about speaking in public. It was horrible and humiliating. I would get very noticeably shaky, sweaty, and my voice would tremble. I suffered with this all through high school, college, and my early career. Then I learned about a med called a beta blocker that is used by musicians and actors who have stage fright (it is generally prescribed for people with high blood pressure, but is also useful for anxiety). It works by blocking the release of adrenaline, so you don’t feel the physical symptoms of anxiety. You still feel scared and uncomfortable, but it isn’t noticeable.

I had tried practicing, meditation, even hypnotherapy, and nothing worked. The beta blocker was a miracle. You take one small dose an hour or so before a presentation. After I had used it a few times, I found I didn’t need it anymore as I was able to feel more comfortable over time. I went on to give many presentations during my career without ever needing them again. I wish so much I would have known about the med years earlier - it would have saved me from a lot of suffering and humiliation.

If you feel like your problem is severe like mine was, I would suggest that you talk to a doctor about this option.
I wouldn’t recommend meds to anyone who just feels nervous about public speaking - only for those with severe anxiety with intolerable physical symptoms. I was at the point where my job required me to do public presentations and I really needed something that would make that possible for me. My doctor was very understanding and was willing to help me.

That being said, being prepared is also key as mentioned above^. Do several rehearsals of each presentation beforehand. I felt dumb going into a room and talking to myself, but it really does help to go over the material a few times so the presentation flows smoothly.

I found some info you might like to read in the link below. I googled “beta blockers for stage fright”.