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If public speaking
is your biggest fear, California psychologists are testing a 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 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
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