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Do you find it hard to give presentations, stand on stage or otherwise be the centre of attention? You may be suffer from stage fright. Here we explain what it is and how you can get help.
What is stage fright?
Stage fright is a form of social phobia where a person feels an intense fear of performing or speaking in front of an audience. This anxiety is not only limited to stage performances such as theatre or musical performances, but also applies to situations such as public speaking, presenting at school or work, or even participating in social events where the person feels like the centre of attention. It is estimated that a quarter of all people avoid situations where they need to speak in front of others. Stage fright can be limiting for those who have it, but help is available.
Why do people get stage fright?
Stage fright can be caused by psychological, biological and environmental factors. It may be from being criticised in the past or insecurity. You may have had previous negative experiences or made a mistake when you were on stage. Low self-esteem can also have an affect, or perfectionism where there is an excessive fear of making mistakes. There could be hereditary factors where environment and upbringing play a role. Many factors can lead to developing the condition.
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Symptoms of stage fright
Symptoms can be physical and psychological and vary in severity, from mild problems to severe. Here are some symptoms you may experience with stage fright:
- Physical symptoms: Trembling, sweating, heart palpitations, nausea, dry mouth, and sometimes an upset stomach or headache.
- Cognitive symptoms: Negative thoughts about performance, fear of making a fool of oneself, concern about negative judgement from others, and catastrophic thoughts.
- Behavioural symptoms: Avoidance of situations where one has to perform or speak in front of others, or participating in such situations with intense anxiety.
Stage fright can limit a person’s ability to perform or participate in social situations, so it’s good to seek help to stop it affecting your life too badly. Avoiding social situations in general, and not just during performances, can be a symptom of social anxiety. This could be a broader anxiety disorder that also requires treatment.
Treatment of stage fright
Treatment for stage fright often involves psychotherapy and sometimes medication. The type of treatment for stage fright can vary from person to person, and vary in time depending on the severity. At the beginning of treatment, an assessment is made to see which type would be most helpful.
Psychotherapy: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective forms of therapy. It helps people understand their problem and how it developed. CBT also helps individuals to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to the anxiety and to develop other approaches that lead to improved well-being.
Medication: Drug treatment can include the use of beta-blockers, which act as anti-anxiety medication. They lower the heart rate by affecting the stress hormones that are released when you feel anxious, even though there is no real reason for the feeling.
Taking the first step
If you recognise the symptoms of stage fright, it is a good idea to seek help. It is possible to improve your quality of life and Lavendla has psychologists and therapists who are ready to support you through your journey. We make the difficult easier.
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12 common questions and answers about stage fright
What is stage fright?
Stage fright is a form of social phobia in which a person feels an intense fear at the thought of performing or speaking in front of an audience. This anxiety is not only limited to traditional stage performances such as theatre or musical performances, but can apply to situations such as public speaking, presenting at school or work, or even participating in social events where the person feels like the centre of attention.
How common is stage fright?
Very common, it is estimated that a quarter of people avoid situations where they need to speak in front of others.
What causes stage fright?
Stage fright can be caused by an interaction of psychological, biological and environmental factors.
What are the symptoms of stage fright?
There are often physical symptoms such as shaking, sweating, heart palpitations, nausea, dry mouth, and sometimes stomach upset or headaches. Negative thoughts and fears are also common. People may start to avoid situations that cause anxiety.
What is the difference between stage fright and social phobia?
Social phobia is anxiety in social situations in general, not just during performances and presentations, although stage fright is part of social phobia.
Does everyone’s stage fright look the same?
Stage fright can differ between individuals, both in terms of the severity of symptoms and in terms of which situations are avoided. An individual assessment is made during your first session with a therapist.
Can stage fright be treated?
Yes, it can be treated, you can go to therapy and even get medication.
What is cognitive behavioural therapy?
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based therapy that helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to anxiety.
Can medication help?
Yes, some medications can be helpful. You can speak with your doctor about options.
Can stage fright be cured?
It is possible to overcome stage fright if you get the right treatment and learn how to manage your symptoms and the feelings and thoughts they provoke.
Is stage fright dangerous?
Stage fright is not dangerous, although the symptoms can be distressing.
Where can I go if I need help?
Through our site, you can book an initial session with a qualified psychologist or therapist to describe your problems and begin planning a treatment programme. We will help you make the difficult easier.
Treating stage fright with CBT
Here we explains how to treat stage fright using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Help is available and this is an idea of the treatment:
Assessment of symptoms
The first step is for a licensed psychologist or qualified therapist to help you evaluate your situation and history. You may also be asked to complete assessment forms.
Psychoeducation and objectives
You will learn about your anxiety and how it affects you both physically and psychologically. They work on analysing situations and setting goals for treatment.
Tools for changing behaviours and patterns
You will work on identifying and changing thought patterns that are linked to your stage fright. Your therapist will work with you using different tools for overcoming your problem. You will be given homework to practice between sessions.
Follow-up and evaluation of progress
You will be supported by your psychologist throughout the process. At the end of the treatment, you will receive a plan to continue practicing and maintaining your progress over time.
Feel free to book an initial session with one of our licensed psychologists or therapists to find out how they can help you. We make the difficult easier.
