The silent struggle: Public speaking anxiety affects millions

IN an age where effective communication is paramount, the fear of public speaking— known as ‘glossophobia’—remains a significant challenge for millions.

Statistics from the Cross River Therapy, a leading provider of Applied Behaviours Analysis (ABA) therapy services for children who are on the autism spectrum shows approximately 15 million people grapple with this anxiety daily.

Moreover, 75 per cent of the population has a fear of public speaking, affecting over 200 million people globally. For many, the fear is palpable. Symptoms like sweaty palms, racing hearts and shaky voices often accompany public speaking situations.

Experts like Dr Emily Carter, a psychologist specialising in anxiety disorders, identify several underlying causes of this anxiety.

“The fear of judgment and past negative experiences plays significant roles. “Many individuals possess a heightened sense of self-awareness, leading to overthinking and, ultimately, anxiety,” she explains.

The stakes can feel especially high in academic and professional settings. Globally, glossophobia affects individuals across various contexts, from educational environments to professional situations.

A recent study found that 60 per cent of college students experience significant anxiety related to public speaking, often impacting their academic performance and participation. Fortunately, there are solutions.

Workshops focused on public speaking techniques— emphasising practice in small groups and relaxation strategies—are becoming more accessible. Local community centres and colleges increasingly offer programmes designed to help individuals build confidence in their speaking abilities.

In Tanzania, cultural factors and societal expectations shape how people experience and cope with this fear. As a result, Organisations like Toastmasters International have emerged as crucial support systems, providing a safe space for individuals to practice and enhance their communication skills.

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The organisation founded hundred years ago and headquartered in the United States has grown to approximately 270,000 members in over 14,000 clubs across 150 countries.

In Tanzania alone, the organisation boasts approximately 10 clubs and around 200 active members, with over 500 individuals having received training. The concern remains on how effective are initiatives such as creating dedicated spaces or programmes aimed at teaching people to become more confident in public speaking.

The revelation begins with the African Development Bank, Regional Chief General Services and Procurement Officer Mr Oltesh Thobias, a Toastmaster member from the Arusha club shares how the organisation transformed his life.

“Growing up in a strict family made it difficult for me to express myself. This fear held me back from leadership opportunities and advancing in my career,” he explains. He added that “After joining Toastmasters, I learned how to communicate effectively, opening doors for me to work with various organisations both locally and internationally,” he shared during the event dubbed ‘Open House’ organised by the Dar Toastmasters Community.

The event aimed at providing a supportive and learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting to a greater self-confidence and personal growth.

Similarly, Grace Gathuri Karen from Kenya joined Toastmasters to conquer her extreme fear of public speaking. She revealed that with aspirations to become a country manager in Tanzania, she sought the skills necessary to engage customers confidently.

“I needed a boost to articulate myself better. Toastmasters have been instrumental in my journey toward becoming a leader in my industry,” she says.

However, apart from the situation being just lack of confidence to most of the Tanzania as it is to the globe, a concern was raised that the problem may be caused by the education system the country had. Dr Catherine Kahabuka, a researcher and educator said that the lack of emphasis on soft skills in traditional education systems has contributed to the widespread fear of public speaking.

Her concern revolves around the less-growing anxiety among younger generations, especially when comparing their educational experiences to those of past students.

“In the past, education focused primarily on hard skills, leaving little room for the development of communication abilities. “Fortunately, today’s students have more opportunities to practice public speaking,” Dr Kahabuka noted, referencing her 17-year-old daughter, who successfully addressed an audience of approximately 50 adults. She added that this underscores the importance of modern initiatives, such as dedicated training spaces, which aim to equip individuals with the confidence and skills necessary for effective public speaking.

As society increasingly values effective communication, addressing public speaking anxiety becomes essential.

With organisations such as Toastmasters and educational institutions prioritising training programmes, there is hope that individuals can transform their fears into confidence, enabling them to express themselves freely and powerfully.