Speech anxiety can be extremely overwhelming, hindering your school and work performance. People who suffer from speech anxiety can get help for it from a mental health professional or a doctor.
Features
Those suffering from speech anxiety are almost paralyzed by the fear of speaking in front of others. They may have a racing heart, sweaty palms, upset stomach and emotional issues due to public speaking.
Prevalence
According to the University Center Rochester, public speaking is one of the most common fears, and some people rank it higher than the fear of death. One in five people may suffer from speech anxiety.
Effects
If you're terrified of speaking in public, it can affect your grades at school. You may not be able to move up in ranking at work if you're unwilling to talk in front of groups of people, and could be let go if it's part of your job.
Self-Help
You can take steps to prevent speech anxiety, such as practicing, taking deep breaths before you begin and taking care of yourself the day before the speech.
Treatment
For people with extreme speech anxiety, doctors sometimes prescribe beta-blockers in short-term increments.
