Hi everyone,
i am currently taking a Speech 1A class and today I was supposed to give my speech. Right before it was my turn to go up, I had a minor anxiety attack. I just got so nervous that I basically started crying and I couldn't help it. I didn't even want to cry! Anyway it was kind of embarrassing, but I'm not too embarrassed. I had been having stomach issues basically since I woke up today and even now before bed I still am having the stomach problem. I think it is because I've gone number 2 like 5 times today. Sorry if that's gross.
The last time I had really bad anxiety I probably went to the bathroom (#2) about 10-15 times. I know that this can come along with anxiety, but it really sucks. I've been subscribes Xanax .5 mg and only took it once. When I did take it, it was because I could not stop crying and my heart was beating nonstop. I feel like it helped within 5 minutes. The doctor told me to try not to take the pill a lot since it's highly addictive. But it's hard to determine when to take them and when I need it.
Anyway, if anyone could give me any information to help me out with speech anxiety, my stomach problems, and the Xanax 'issue' I would really appreciate any input. I really hope people reply because I really need help.
Hi, the best thing to do in my opinion is firstly to practice your speech a few times in front of a mirror or to a small group of friends.
Secondly accept that you will feel anxious before public speaking and that it is normal as it actually helps you focus so anxiety is in fact your friend.
Thirdly and may be the hardest is to acclimatise yourself to speeches by doing them, this takes time but the more you do the less anxioys you will be beforehand especially if you remember the first two points!
Anxiety is your friend but can also latch on to your negative side telling you you will mess up, freeze and all those "What if's", but if you've practiced you can tell yourself you will be fine abd that even if you do mess up its no big deal.
Hope this helps.
Neil
Hi, just keep going! I was a terrified good pianist at college n would shake, dry mouth, thought I would faint etc. Joined an acting club, was terrified too! Did everything out of my comfort zone and joined a poetry club as well. Feel the fear and do it anyway. Take deep deep breaths before you go on, you can and will control it. IT'S VERY NORMAL!!! You will be fine. Practice, have notes, read them exactly if you have too, then after a while you'l only need bullet points then eventually you will be able to think within it all. It takes a bit of time. You will succeed.
Hi Neil,
Thank you for your reply! I really appreciate your help. I think I will do well on the speaking part, it's just as soon as I get up the I can't help but get really nervous. And I think when I'm trying to calm myself down, I worry most about something happening (anxiety wise). My voice gets shakey and I get shakey and it just gets worse from there. I will try practicing in front of my boyfriend and friend and see if that helps. Thanks for your advice!
Kelsey
Hi Matt,
I get most of those symptoms as well. I was trying to take deep breaths right before I went on, but it didn't help much. I'm honestly temped to take a Xanax before my speech, but I don't know if I should or not. Also, I don't know if it will even help me. I am definitely going to keep practicing. Thank you for your advice!
Kelsey