Do I need a career coach or a therapist? Or maybe both!

[Anonymous]

In the last couple of years I have really struggled with issues of performance anxiety related to my professional work. It doesn't happen often but when it does it is debiliating. My panic attacks usually arise when I'm asked to present on a technical topic outside of my immediate technical area to other professionals in my field. No amount of preparation allievates the panic. It's something I actively avoid to the detriment of my career advancement but again, the panic attacks are severe enough that I become physically ill and will do anything to avoid having to do the presentation.

Right now, I was sort of cornered into being the presenter at an upcoming conference and am engaged in a negotiation with my boss trying to get out of it. I know it looks bad. I know it diminshes how I'm perceived and I don't care.

What do you all think? What do I need to get this resolved?

Thanks and try to be kind.

[Anonymous]

You could get a beta blocker to take the day of the presentation. They are prescribed for anxiety--works by preventing your nervous system from ramping up into a panic attack. Better for presenting than a tranquilizer (xanax, valium, etc). This would be a good short term solution. Long term, you could get some cognitive therapy.

[Anonymous]

have you talked to your primary care doctor about this? I would tell them you seem to have a panic attack when you have to give a presentation a few times a year and see what they recommend.

I would think in this case a combination of therapy and medication is what you need, but definitely ask your doctor. good luck.

[Anonymous]

Your feelings and reaction sound severe enough that I would recommend a therapist rather than a coach. While coaches can be very helpful with career issues and many can help with low-level anxiety in that conext, what you describe seems well beyond the training of a career coach.

Find a good therapist to help you develop strategies to address/manage your anxiety. I'd recommend a cognitive psychologist (behavioral psych) rather than a psychotherapist, but that's just my preference for something like this. Ask around or search this board for recommendations.

BTW, I'm intrigued by PP's advice to try beta blockers for the specific situation. Has anyone else done this? How did it feel?

Good luck, OP!

[Anonymous]

Interesting you posted this. I have the exact same issue and am an attorney.

[Anonymous]

You could benefit from therapy. I'd look for a psychologist that does cognitive behavioral therapy. Also agree that short-term, a medication such as beta blocker might be helpful.