HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Suggest Treatment For Fear Of Public Speaking

Posted on Thu, 30 Mar 2017

Question: I am 40 years old. Healthy, no medication. Since I was young I've had a fear of public speaking where my heart would race and I would have the fight or flight syndrome. As I got older it has gotten worse, I also have self diagnosed myself with a bit of a social anxiety disorder. I was prescribed zanax and propranol about 15 years ago, when it started affecting my work. But over time changed my work habits and stopped using them because I don't like taking medication. I was wondering is there any methods naturally or prescription based or treatment I can do to overcome these issues.

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for your question.

The best treatment available for this specific phobia of public speaking is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This is an evidence-based manualized time-limited treatment, typically 12 sessions, of intensive cognitive restructuring and behavioral exposure techniques. This is the best available method to conquer this problem, and best of all, does not involve medications. Seek out a CBT therapist in your area.

Please remember to rate and close this answer thread when you are finished and satisfied.

In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private web address below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private web address: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (19 hours later)

Thanks Dr. Sheppe, also wondering about the social anxiety part of it. Is there any other treatments that you would recommend for it. Does the cognitive therapy help with this is also. Are there any medications other than xanax or propanolol that you can take before you know when you have to public speak or have a social function that is going to give you anxiety. Instead of having to take it daily or all the time? Also anything where you can take it and also have an alcoholic drink.?

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (22 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Followup

Detailed Answer:
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is the treatment of choice and gold standard for social anxiety. In terms of as-needed medications, Atarax (hydroxyzine) is an option you can consider. None of these should be mixed with alcohol, because this will lead to oversedation. Alcohol worsens anxiety anyway, over time, and should be avoided.

Please remember to rate and close this answer thread when you are finished and satisfied.

In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private web address below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private web address: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee