Speech anxiety

The fear of public speaking is called glossophobia, from the Greek glosso-, meaning tongue, and phobia, fear or dread. Glossophobia is more commonly known as stage fright.

Prevalence
It is believed to be the single most common phobia, affecting as much as 75% of all people. When ranked among fears, it generally is the number one fear, even surpassing fear of death. Glossophobia is considered a social phobia and may be linked to, or sometimes precede, a more severe anxiety disorder. Several musicians have the fear of publicly performing, including Barbra Streisand and Dusty Springfield.

Symptoms
Symptoms include:


 * intense anxiety prior to, or simply at the thought of having to verbally communicate with any group,
 * avoidance of events which focus the group's attention on individuals in attendance,
 * physical distress, nausea, or feelings of panic in such circumstances.

Many people report stress-induced speech disorders which are only present during public speech. Some glossophobics have been able to dance or perform in public as long as they do not have to speak, or even speak or sing as long as they cannot see the audience.

Causes
The root cause of glossophobia, although unknown, can be attributed to either: or
 * a single traumatic incident, whether experienced personally or associated with someone who has,
 * a slow build-up from merely avoiding public speaking to a more severe form of glossophobia.

Help and relief
Some organizations, such as Toastmasters International, and training courses in public speaking may help to reduce the fear to manageable levels. Self-help materials that address public speaking are among the best selling self-help topics. Some affected people have turned to certain types of drugs, typically beta-blockers to temporarily treat their phobia. Alcohol is another common "cure", but more dangerous and not recommended.