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If public
speaking is your biggest fear, California psychologists are
testing a new cure: a public speaking video game.
The
technical term for the cure is "virtual reality therapy" and it’s being
tested in San Diego at the Virtual Reality Medical Center.
The VRMC uses virtual reality to cure many types of phobias,
including fear of driving, flying, and yes, public speaking,
according to an article in a recent edition of Psychiatric
News.
Virtual
reality therapy simulates the public speaking experience with
computer and video technology. Patients stand at a lectern and wear a
head-mounted display that uses small video monitors and stereo
headphones to simulate the public speaking experience.
The patient then gives a presentation while doctors monitor
heart rate, respiration, and skin temperature.
Why does this work? The best way
to deal with any phobia, including a fear of public speaking,
is to face the fear head on, Brenda Wiederhold, executive
director of the VRMC, told Psychiatric News.
But
actual reality is often too difficult for many patients. "Only about
20 percent of people with phobias actually seek
treatment because they are too overwhelmed at the
thought of being exposed to what they have been
avoiding," Wiederhold said. So virtual reality is the next
best thing.
Similarly,
at Speechworks we believe that the best way to deal with a
fear of public speaking is to practice as much as possible.
Here are a few tips to help you through your next anxious
presentation.
Rehearse
like crazy:
the best way to do well during an actual presentation is to
practice a lot. If you get extremely
nervous, practice the presentation from beginning to end 10
times. That way, you know you’ll be able to get through the
presentation no matter what.
Greet the
audience
beforehand: working the room before the
presentation helps turn a room of intimidating strangers into
a room of friends.
Light
exercise:
the anxiety that you feel is adrenaline coursing through your
body. Walking around the block, isometric exercises, or even
pushups, can help relieve the tension.
At
Speechworks we help our clients learn how to communicate
in a way that connects and persuades. If you’re interested in
becoming a great communicator give us a call at 404-266-0888
or check out our website at
www.speechworks.net |
