Hi all,
I thought i would test the water with this one wrt my situation. I work in a environment where on an irregular basis, say 6 or 7 times a year i have to give papers at work or conferences etc.
However, I have what i consider a pretty debilitating public speaking anxiety. The thought of speaking in public sends me into a deep panic and it doesn't improve when i am up on stage. It all stemmed from a presentation i tried to do at university that because of a pounding heart, severe shakes and the inability to speak without sounding like i had just been castrated, meant that i could not finish the talk.
Thankfully, i was prescribed propranolol by my GP and that has helped tremendously. Although i still have severe fear regarding giving speeches, i (just!) about manage to get through them. As i am moving on in my career, i would like to be confident on stage without that look of absolute fear on my face and in my mind before i talk. My GP recommended combining Propranolol with a VERY low dose as needed of a benzo, e.g. diazepam or Clonazepam to take the edge off. There is no contraindication of taking propranolol and a low dose benzo together.
As yet, i have not tried it (he prescribed 2mg diazepam, to take an hour or so before the talk) so was wondering if anyone out there has taken a benzo for this specific problem? Which one? dosage? I really would appreciate people’s comments on this one. i have looked over the posts on this website and i think you guys will be able to give me some constructive and honest advice.
thanks