Speaking anxiety

Fear of public speaking

Anxiety-related speaking difficulties are more common than many people realise. Whether it's a fear of public speaking, struggling to get words out in social settings, or experiencing physical symptoms like a tight throat or dry mouth, speaking challenges caused by anxiety can be deeply distressing and isolating. From this website, in therapy, and our webinars, we’ll explore what anxiety-related speaking difficulties are, what causes them, how they manifest, and most importantly, how they can be helped.

Anxiety-related speaking difficulties refer to problems with verbal communication that are triggered or worsened by feelings of anxiety. These challenges can include:

• Difficulty starting or continuing speech

• Mumbling, stammering, or forgetting words

• Avoidance of certain words or phrases

• Feeling like your throat is closing up

• Fear of being judged, laughed at, or misunderstood

These difficulties may be mild or severe, temporary or long-standing. They can occur in formal settings like presentations or in everyday situations such as ordering food or answering the phone.

Common Triggers of Speaking Anxiety

Speaking anxiety is often situational. Some common triggers include:

• Public speaking: Fear of being the centre of attention

• Social conversations: Worry about saying the “wrong” thing

• Authority figures: Speaking to bosses, doctors, or teachers

• Group settings: Feeling overwhelmed or exposed

• Past negative experiences: Teasing, bullying, or embarrassment

These triggers can come from negative childhood experiences, which create a loop of anxiety: the more you worry about speaking, the more difficult it becomes, reinforcing the fear.

Anxiety can affect the voice in several ways. Muscle tension around the larynx (voice box) may cause the voice to sound strained or breathy. Shallow breathing can reduce vocal power and resonance. Over time, chronic stress and worry can lead to vocal fatigue, avoidance of speaking, and even conditions like muscle tension dysphonia—a voice disorder caused by improper use of the vocal muscles.

Speech becomes effortful, and the person may avoid situations where speaking is required, which can lead to further isolation and self-doubt.

Don't let it interfear with life

If speaking anxiety is interfering with your work, relationships, education, or mental health, it’s time to seek support. Many people live with these difficulties for years without realising that help is available. You don’t have to “just push through” or avoid situations that trigger you.

Therapists who specialise in anxiety-related phobias and speaking issues can help you understand the root of your fear and create a plan for lasting change. The earlier you address the issue, the easier it often is to resolve.

Check out our case studies for more details.