Glossophobia is the fear of public speaking or of speaking in general, and an estimated 75% of all people experience some degree of it. Specific symptoms of speech anxiety can be grouped into physical and verbal symptoms.
Physical symptoms are the result of the sympathetic part of the autonomic nervous system responding with increased adrenaline secretion which activates fight-or-flight reactions such as increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, dilated pupils, increased perspiration, increased oxygen intake, stiffening of neck and upper back muscles and dry mouth. Verbal symptoms include a tense or quivering voice and vocalized pauses.
Presentation anxiety can be highly unpleasant for those who experience it and often leads sufferers to avoid situations where they might have to speak in a group or public setting, and this can handicap not just the person but an organization as a whole. The remedy is acquisition of the communication tools and confidence necessary to help fearful and reluctant speakers feel more at ease.
