What is Speech Anxiety?

A great fear that many people have is speaking before a group or audience. The primary reason is that they are afraid of looking foolish in front of other people, peers and important people.

Speech anxiety is the fear or anxiety associated with real or anticipated communication with others.

• People avoid jobs if they involve public speaking.
• Certain S tudents choose their subjects based or whether or not a course in public speaking is required.
• Certain People avoid promotions which require giving presentations.

85% feel uncomfortable speaking before groups.

In many surveys, it is found that the number 1 fear of American adults, ranking ahead of snakes, heights, and even death.

Symptoms of Speech Anxiety:

• sweaty palms.
• increased blood pressure.
• mouth gets dry.
• pounding or increased heart beat.
• shortness of breath.
• shaking, trembling.
• stutter or start speaking rapidly.
• nausea.
• increased muscle tension.

Steps To Overcome Speech Anxiety:

1. Prepare thoroughly and practice adequately before speaking to a group.
2. Dress well appropriate/comfortably.
3. Practice your speech in until you feel comfortable and confident.
4. Practice on integrating body language and visual aids into your speech.
5. Reduce the fear of your audience.
6. Practice speaking in front of mirror, rehearse-try speech out on friend.
7. Practice breathing and relaxing. Relax yourself just before you speak.
8. To relax, meditate immediately before entering the room.