Glossophobia - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What Is Glossophobia?

Glossophobia is neither a chronic condition nor a disease, and it is a social phobia. It is also known as the fear of public speaking. The affected people find it challenging to speak in front of the group, which triggers feelings of anxiety and discomfort along with a racing heartbeat, sweating, and uncontrollable trembling. Such situations can make one stressed, and they may also have an overwhelming urge to run out of the room or the situation. These types of anxiety disorders get worse over time. They increase one’s fears and also interfere with their ability to function.

What Are the Causes of Glossophobia?

Many people fear public speaking because of the fear of being judged, rejected, or embarrassed. On the other hand, it might be due to previous bad experiences. Other causes include low self-esteem, lack of confidence, social anxiety disorder, and a lack of public speaking experience. Furthermore, genetic, environmental, and neurological factors may all contribute to glossophobia.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Glossophobia?

Some common symptoms of glossophobia include:

• An increase in the heart rate.

• Sweating.

• Trembling.

• Vomiting.

• Dry mouth.

• Nausea.

• Dizziness.

• Urge to urinate.

• Muscle tension.

• Shortness of breath.

• Strong urge to get away from this situation.

The signs of glossophobia include:

• Avoid speaking in public.

• Over-preparing for social interaction.

• Fearing judgment.

• Shaking or quivering voice.

• Stammers.

• Vocalized pauses.

• Extreme stress during the presentation.

• Engaging oneself in activities that do not involve public speaking.

• Making use of passive and non-verbal communication methods.

• Need for alcohol or medication before engaging in public speaking.

How Is Glossophobia Diagnosed?

The exact cause of glossophobia may be a combination of factors. The diagnosis can be based on the signs and symptoms and their medical, family, and social history.

What Are the Methods to Treat Glossophobia?

The treatment of glossophobia depends on different factors, such as the nature and severity of the condition. The treatment for glossophobia involves psychotherapy, making lifestyle changes, and medications. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises and meditation are advised. Other lifestyle modifications include practicing public speaking and some physical exercise. These lifestyle changes help to reduce the physical, mental, and emotional symptoms. They also help to increase focus and promote overall wellness and health. One should seek help and visit the doctor if fear of public speaking is very severe and interferes with daily life. The doctor can help provide a targeted treatment plan. The treatment options include:

• Psychotherapy - Many people try to overcome their glossophobia with cognitive behavioral therapy. Talking with the therapist can help identify the root cause. This will help one discover their fears. Along with the therapist, one can explore their worries and negative thoughts. The therapist can teach one the ways by which they can reshape their negative thoughts. For example, learn to accept that all people make mistakes or have omissions while presenting, so it is fine if one makes a mistake because one can learn from it. Always be confident. When one identifies their fears, their confidence grows day by day.

• Medications - If the therapy does not relieve the symptoms, the doctor may prescribe some medicines to help treat anxiety disorders. Beta-blockers are advised as they are used to treat high blood pressure and some heart problems. Beta-blockers are also helpful in controlling the symptoms of glossophobia. Antidepressants can also be advised as they treat depression which could also be beneficial in managing social anxiety. Benzodiazepines like Ativan or Xanax can also be recommended if the concern is severe and affects daily life.

• Exposure Therapy - Exposure therapy is a very effective treatment for fear of public speaking. The therapist may teach relaxation methods such as mind visualization, muscle-releasing exercises, and meditation during the session. Exposure therapy also includes interpersonal therapy and psychodynamic therapy.

The therapy treatment depends upon the duration, skills, goals of the person, and severity. However, IPT and CBT can rapidly improve the symptoms.

What Are Different Strategies That Can Be Used to Treat Glossophobia?

Some strategies can be used along with psychotherapy and medications. For example, some may find it beneficial to take a public speaking workshop or a class. Some other strategies include:

• Practicing Often - To feel more confident about presenting in front of an audience, practice until one feels confident. Increasing the practice time will also help in gaining confidence.

• Record the Presentation - By recording a video, one can notice all the changes that are needed.

• Script the Presentation - Write down and rehearse until one feels confident enough.

• Work On the Questions that Might Be Asked - Note down a list of questions that might be asked and prepare those to answer.

• Practice Before the Final Presentation - Always rehearse and practice the presentation before the final act.

• Avoid Eating Before the Presentation - Avoid having food or caffeine before speaking.

• Always speak slowly because people tend to talk faster when they are nervous, so make a conscious effort to slow down.

• Drink a few sips of water occasionally if one has a dry mouth while giving a speech.

• Practice in a realistic environment before the event to overcome fear and anxiety.

• Get familiar with the space and the surrounding upon arriving.

• Ensure that the projector, laptop, or any equipment one uses is working correctly.

• Smile and make eye contact with the audience.

• Do not stress. Instead, be alert and energetic.

• Do not memorize the speech.

Conclusion:

The treatment of glossophobia usually depends upon the severity and medical history of the individual. So overcoming glossophobia is not an easy process as it requires lots of patience, commitment, and willingness from the affected individual.