How to Treat Stage Fright (Performance Anxiety)

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Health And Fitness Skills

Stage fright, also known as performance anxiety, affects a wide range of people, from musicians and public speakers to athletes and surgeons. It triggers a "fight or flight" response with physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, and rapid heartbeat. Here’s how to understand and manage it:

Causes and Symptoms

Triggers: Stressful events such as speeches, tests, or recitals.

Physical Symptoms:
- Sweating
- Heart palpitations
- Trembling or shaking
- Dry mouth
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Hyperventilation

Emotional Impact: Fear of embarrassment or scrutiny can lead to avoidance or self-medication with substances.

Treatment Options

1. Non-Drug Approaches

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
Teaches anxiety management techniques.
Includes exposure and performance practice.
Toastmasters Workshops: Improve public speaking skills and confidence.
Lifestyle Adjustments:
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and other stimulants.
Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing.

2. Medication: Beta-Blockers

Beta-blockers like propranolol are commonly used off-label to reduce physical symptoms by blocking adrenaline's effects.

Effectiveness:
Reduces symptoms like trembling, rapid heartbeat, and voice quivers.
May not significantly reduce psychological symptoms.
Performance-Specific Evidence:
Music: Improves control and reduces tremors for musicians.
Public Speaking: Reduces anxiety symptoms and improves recall for highly anxious speakers.
Surgery: Lowers tremors and anxiety in medical residents.
Test Taking: Mixed results, with modest improvement in cognitive performance.
Sports: Helps in precision sports but not suitable for aerobic activities.

Risks and Warnings

Medical Conditions to Consider:
- Not recommended for asthma, bradycardia, congestive heart failure, or specific heart-rhythm disorders.

Possible Side Effects:
- Dizziness, headaches, insomnia, low blood pressure, and gastrointestinal issues.
- Rare but serious effects: irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing, swelling, or chest pain.

Pregnancy and Surgery:
- Use with caution; may affect newborns or interact with anesthesia.

Practical Steps Before Using Beta-Blockers

Doctor’s Evaluation:
- Screen for conditions like asthma, heart abnormalities, or thyroid issues.
- Address other causes of anxiety such as alcohol withdrawal or stimulant use.

Trial Dose:
- Test the medication before the performance day to ensure no adverse effects like lightheadedness.

Combine with Therapy:
- Use beta-blockers as a supplement to behavioral or cognitive therapy.

Bottom Line

Beta-blockers can be helpful for managing physical symptoms of stage fright but are not a cure for underlying anxiety.
Non-drug strategies like CBT and performance practice should be your first steps.
If needed, use beta-blockers only after a thorough discussion with your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Take control of stage fright with a balanced approach for lasting confidence!