Feeling nervous before a big moment? You’re not alone. Whether it’s a presentation, a performance, or a big game, performance anxiety—sometimes called “stage fright”—is something many of us face. The good news? There are ways to manage it, and Northeast Health Services in Massachusetts is here to help. If you’re struggling with performance anxiety or other mental health challenges, you could benefit from our anxiety treatment services. Call 508.794.8711 to learn more.

Understanding Anxiety

Anxiety is a natural stress response—part of our “fight or flight” system that kicks in during tense moments. But when it becomes constant and starts interfering with daily life, it might be time to look closer.

Typical Stress Responses vs. Anxiety Disorders: What’s the Difference?

Feeling nervous before a job interview or first date? This can be typical and usually fades after the moment passes. Anxiety disorders, though, are more persistent and can bring intense worry, avoidance, and physical symptoms like headaches or fatigue.

What Is Performance Anxiety?

Performance anxiety is the fear of being judged or failing when you’re in the spotlight—think public speaking, sports, or performing. Symptoms like a racing heart, dry mouth, or self-doubt are common, but they don’t define your abilities. With the right tools and support, you can overcome it and shine.

How to Manage Stage Fright

Finding relief from performance anxiety doesn’t mean eliminating nerves. Instead, it’s about learning techniques to channel that energy positively.

Prepare Thoroughly

Practice improves confidence. Rehearse your presentation, performance, or game plan multiple times. The more familiar you are with your material, the more secure you’ll feel.

Focus on Your Breathing

Deep breathing sends signals to your brain that calm your body. Try this simple exercise:

• Breathe in slowly for four seconds.
• Hold the breath for four seconds.
• Exhale slowly for four seconds.

Repeat this process a few times to help ground yourself when you feel overwhelmed.

Visualize Success

Use visualization techniques to imagine yourself excelling in the situation. Picture yourself speaking calmly, performing flawlessly, or completing your goal with confidence.

Stay Present

Overthinking can worsen anxiety. Focus on the task at hand rather than worrying about the outcome. Techniques like mindfulness or grounding exercises can be helpful—such as noticing sensory details in your surroundings.

Share Your Feelings

Talking to a friend, colleague, or supportive family member about your worries can reduce feelings of isolation. Sometimes just vocalizing your fears is enough to lessen their impact.

Seek Professional Support

If stage fright feels unmanageable, reaching out to a mental health professional can make a significant difference. They can provide tailored strategies and tools to help you approach performance situations with greater ease.

How Anxiety Treatment Services Can Help

At Northeast Health Services, we get it. Anxiety can touch every part of life, especially when you need to perform at your best. That’s why we’re here to help with personalized anxiety treatment that fits your unique needs.

Here’s how we can support you:

• Individual therapy – Work one-on-one with a therapist to identify triggers, build resilience, and develop coping skills.
• Medication management – If suitable, our psychiatric providers can create a plan to ease anxiety and help you feel better.
• Peer support – Join group sessions to connect with others, share experiences, and learn strategies to manage anxiety together.

Whether you prefer in-person visits or telehealth, we’re here to help you feel more confident, calm, and in control. Let’s take this step together.

Take the First Step Toward Relief with Northeast Health Services in Massachusetts

Performance anxiety doesn’t have to hold you back from achieving your goals. With the right strategies, tools, and support, you can approach challenges with greater confidence and control. Northeast Health Services can help. Call 508.794.8711 to learn more.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, click here to reach out to our team of empathetic mental health care experts. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.