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How do you speak in group discussions?

Asked By: Anonymous     Views: 2,561 times

Whenever we have group discussions in class I get very shaky and I don't feel normal. I can't be myself when talking in groups of people at parties either. What can I do to cure this?

The word "cure" requires some rather deep emotional work based on learning self acceptance and learning how, in essence, to be yourself. Your starting point is to identify the messages/content in your internal critical script that translate into your belief that you "can't be yourself". It is important to gain insight as to how you learned this excessive script and belief. It's a good bet that you experienced accute levels of embarrasment-humilation associated with excessive nervous system activity. Achieving a "cure" or resolution also involves learning self-nurturing. This is a multi-dimensional concept of self-acknowledgement while promoting emotional growth. Listening to (and studying) the patient interviews at www.socialanxiety.com (many of whom experienced group anxiety) can provide insight.

The following is part of a collection of questions and sharing by our readership community about a wide variety of aspects of social anxiety. Dive in and receive practical insights and advice. If you have a question that is not included you can contact Jonathan at jberent@socialanxiety.com.

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