Speech anxiety--also referred to as communication apprehension--affects about 20 percent of the population, according to the University of Rochester. Speech anxiety is the fear of speaking in public situations. Tough many people experience some level of anxiety when speaking publicly, in some cases the anxiety can be overwhelming. These situations can produce physical and emotional symptoms for those who suffer with this form of anxiety.
Anticipatory Anxiety
For some people. anxiety is at its peak with the anticipation of speaking in public. The worry and fear generated by the prospect of preparing for the speaking event can be mild or in some cases debilitating. This type of speech anxiety can actually prove productive in some situations, as the individual is likely to prepare to the point of near perfection for the event--making the actual speech prone to be successful. However, the effects of the anxiety produced by overpreparation can have a detrimental effect.
Mild Anxiety
It can be normal to have mild anxiety when faced with public speaking. Some symptoms relegated to mild speech anxiety are shaky voice, fidgeting, trembling and forgetfulness. Often, symptoms are so mild that they aren't noticeable. Mild speech anxiety can be overcome relatively easily with behavior modification techniques. Examples of techniques include practice, deep breathing and depersonalization. Practicing makes the person more familiar with the content of the speech, lessening anxiety associated with forgetfulness. Deep breathing helps to relax the body and mind, making it easier to concentrate and focus. Depersonalization takes the pressure off the individual by disassociating himself from the speech.
Severe Anxiety
Some cases of speech anxiety produce severe symptoms. People with severe speech anxiety, also called high anxiety, often avoid public speaking situations entirely. When in a situation where speaking publicly cannot be avoided, symptoms can manifest in prominent ways. Sweaty palms, increased heart rate, dizziness may occur. "Freezing" and becoming unable to perform the required task may occur, even fainting in severe cases. These people usually require intensive therapeutic behavior interventions to overcome their anxiety.
