If you are a bride or groom who suffers with social anxiety disorder, the idea of giving a speech at your wedding may send shivers down your spine. In addition to effective treatment such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication, there are some steps you can take to help calm nerves about giving a speech at your wedding.
- Become familiar with the venue. Make sure that you are familiar with the reception hall before the wedding. Find out where you will be seated and where the microphone and podium will be. Becoming familiar with these surroundings early on will make you more comfortable when the big moment comes.
- Don't script it. Although it may be tempting to write out a speech word for word, unless you are very experienced in public speaking there is a risk that you will come across as stiff and wooden. Instead, carry point form notes with you to the podium and try speaking in a conversational tone.
- Practice! There is no substitute for lots of practice when it comes to public speaking, and a wedding speech is no exception. By practicing what you are going to say in advance, you will gain confidence that will carry through to your big day.
- Imagine Success. Athletes have used this trick for years - by imagining yourself relaxed and confident while delivering your speech, you train your body to respond in the same manner.
- Exercise. Make sure to engage in regular exercise leading up to your wedding. Regular exercise helps to alleviate stress and anxiety.
- Avoid caffeine. While it is never advisable to consume large amounts of caffeine, those who suffer with social anxiety should try to avoid it at all costs. Remember that in addition to coffee and caffeinated soft drinks, tea and chocolate also contain caffeine.
- Admit to being nervous. Before you begin speaking at your wedding, acknowledge that you are nervous. Simply admitting to having a little stage fright often goes a long way to overcoming performance anxiety.
- Focus on your speech. Instead of scanning the room and worrying about what others are thinking, focus on what you are saying. Allow yourself to be swept away by the moment and notice how your anxiety tends to be swept away as well.
Sources:
Social Anxiety Disorder. Public Speaking Anxiety: Preparing to Give a Speech. Accessed October 23, 2008.
Social Anxiety Disorder. Public Speaking Anxiety: Tips for the Big Day. Accessed October 23, 2008.
