How to boost confidence? Near to panic attacks?

[lunavix]

This is going to sound really dumb but here goes.

If I have to talk in front of people (as in all eyes on me) or do anything that even hints towards me possibly being able to make a prat out of myself, I freeze up and start to go into full on panic attack mode. I don't think it could really be classed as butterflies or anything because I go dizzy and can't breathe, and if I have to say anything I 100% mess it up.

I've found my dream job, and I'm so near to starting it. But it involves talking in front of people and quite possibly making an ass of myself in the process. I find myself waking in the night unable to breathe in fear of even just doing it.

Is there anything I could try? Dh suggested hypnotism but I think it's pricey and he doesn't entirely believe me anyways....

lunavix - i suffer social anxiety and get all panicky.the only things that have worked for me are, AD's, reflexology once a month, and trying (if u have the time) to practice breathing properly (i don't seem to have the time lately). i know it sounds stupid but whenever u feel panicky, make an excuse to go to the loo, and whilst there practice breathing deeply. i had to do a presentation last week at college, and believe me, the thought of doing it was much worse than actually doing it.

I think practice helps - I know it sounds odd, but the more you do it, the easier / more second nature it will become.

The adrenaline you experience is the same a performer would go through, but they can channel it positively, like a surge of energy.

There are books on public speaking - one by a former voice coach for the National Theatre, or Royal Shakespeare co (I forget which)...

You can go on public speaking courses where you practice in a safe environment and they give you tips on how to cope. I've only done it through work, but I'm sure if you google you could find something.

Big leap of faith to take but have you ever done singing?
This style of teaching is very confidence boosting - you don't need to sing solos, read music, audition or sing very loud (in fact you could probably mime your way through your first session.) You learn different harmony parts together, pick the one you think you can manage and then put it all together - you've helped make this fantastic sound. No pressure, very friendly, many prople who drop in to my local one can't sing very well but it doesn't matter and nobody notices at the time (I've only realised in hindsight).
I only started singing in 2001, hadn't even sung in the same room as my dh before and now you can't shut me up!

Alexander technique was invented by an Actor who had to overcome this problem......... maybe worth a look

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