While performance anxiety is one of the most common phobias in the United States, chances are many of us are able to calm ourselves and carry on after experiencing it. For some, that’s not the case. Before performing, many artists have cited being so anxious that they get physically sick, like Adele. Others, such as Barbara Streisand, often refuse to perform in public settings because they can’t face their anxiety.
This social anxiety can alter people’s lives, as it may cause a person to get up and leave before a nerve wracking interview, be too afraid to share their talents, or crumble under pressure in a work presentation. It’s a terrifying feeling that is often overlooked or brushed off. Luckily, there is science behind this madness. When a person is stressed, their adrenal glands produce adrenaline that rushes into the bloodstream. This causes the body to awaken and, in turn, the person tightens up, sweats, shakes, experiences dry mouth, has shortness of breath and can begin to feel dizzy. These reactions are what is commonly known as a fight or flight response. For some, this fight or flight response can turn into a full blown panic attack. Clearly, stage fright is no joke. TEDx speaker and
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