Public Speaking And Panic Attacks

For some people, public speaking and panic attacks go together as certainly as inhaling and exhaling; these are people who panic even when asked to introduce themselves to a small group.  Fortunately, for those of you who fear public speaking and panic attacks that seem to go with them automatically, there are techniques that will make public speaking possible without the fear of panic attacks.

The first steps for people who fear public speaking and panic attacks are accepting the fact that they are afraid and analyzing why.  In many cases, if you try to pinpoint the source of a fear, and do it honestly, you will find that your fear is totally baseless -- "fear" is a response to danger; a speaker is not in danger; a speaker is simply uncomfortable.  Public speaking and panic attacks will not automatically go together, once you understand that the danger is not real and train yourself not to act as if it were.

A panic may start, but you knew it would and you are ready for it.  You will want to hold your breath; but as you remember to breath normally, the panic will begin to subside.  You will want to tense up and clench your fists; but as you remember to relax your muscles and smile at your audience, the panic will continue to subside. 

Try relaxing every muscle in your body, one at a time. Tense it up, if you have to, then let it go limp. Breathe deeply, in and out. Relax as you breathe in and let your exhaling take all of the tension away.

Prepare for your talk. Learn your topic inside and out. Have friends ask questions, gently at first. Visualize the audience being receptive to what you have to say. How do you think Politicians can go up in front of an unknown audience and do just fine? They're nto born with it, they practice.

Then, as you remind yourself that you are speaking on a subject that you know and have all the facts you need, your panic will start to dwindle away. With practice it may go away completely, if you stay focused. Think about what you want to say, never think about any bad reactions.  Remember also that you are simply providing information to a group of people who really want, need, and appreciate it.

Another thing to consider, if you're going to be speaking more than once, is to check out ToastMasters. They work with people on their speaking skills and anxiety and have an excellent reputation.

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