Overcome Public Speaking Anxiety This September

Marie De
Aug 20
3 min read

Updated: Sep 1

After a quieter summer, September often signals a return to busier schedules, team meetings, and professional events. For many, it’s also the start of the autumn conference season. With this comes the expectation to present ideas, deliver speeches, or speak up in front of others.

While some take this in their stride, for others, public speaking triggers intense anxiety. You might feel your heart race, palms sweat, or mind go blank at the thought of being in front of an audience. This fear is far more common than you might think. The good news is, it’s something you can overcome.

Whether you’re preparing to present at a London conference, deliver a talk in Folkestone, lead a team meeting in Kent, or speak online to an international audience, September is the perfect time to address public speaking anxiety and step into these opportunities with confidence.

Why Public Speaking Anxiety Peaks in September

The end of summer often brings:

Increased workplace visibility – project updates, team briefings, or client presentations.
Networking events – conferences and industry gatherings are often scheduled for the autumn.
New academic terms – for students or educators, speaking to large groups is part of the job.
Social functions – weddings, community events, or club meetings where speaking is expected.

After several weeks of fewer high-pressure social interactions, these events can feel more daunting.

The Symptoms You Might Recognise

Public speaking anxiety isn’t just “nerves.” It can trigger both physical and mental reactions:

Rapid heartbeat or breathing
Sweating or shaky hands
Dry mouth or tense throat
Feeling your mind go blank
Difficulty focusing on your content
Worrying about making mistakes or being judged

These symptoms can start days or even weeks before the event, creating a cycle of fear and avoidance.

Why We Fear Public Speaking

From an evolutionary perspective, being singled out from the group once meant vulnerability. Our brains can still interpret standing alone in front of others as a potential threat. This activates the fight-or-flight response, flooding your system with adrenaline.

If you’ve had one uncomfortable speaking experience, your subconscious may start associating all public speaking situations with danger, even if you’re fully prepared.

How Hypnotherapy Can Help You Overcome It

Hypnotherapy works with the subconscious mind to change these deep-seated associations. Instead of automatically triggering anxiety, your brain can learn to interpret public speaking as safe – even enjoyable.

In sessions, we can:

Reframe past experiences – so they no longer hold emotional power over you.
Calm your body’s reaction – teaching your mind and body to stay relaxed in front of others.
Boost your self-belief – creating a more confident inner dialogue.
Visualise success – rehearsing your presentation in your mind so it feels familiar and safe.
Build performance resilience – so even if things go off-script, you stay composed.

Clients often notice a reduction in physical anxiety symptoms and a shift in how they view speaking opportunities after just a few sessions.

Practical Tips You Can Start Using Now

While hypnotherapy offers deep, lasting change, here are some simple strategies you can try immediately:

1. Rehearse Out Loud

Speaking the words, rather than just reading them silently, builds familiarity and confidence.

2. Focus on One Friendly Face

Instead of scanning the entire room, connect with one supportive listener.

3. Slow Your Pace

Pausing between sentences not only calms you but also helps the audience absorb your message.

4. Use Grounding Techniques

Place both feet firmly on the floor and take three slow breaths before starting.

Why September Is the Ideal Time to Act

By addressing public speaking anxiety now, you can approach the busiest part of the year with greater confidence and ease. Instead of dreading presentations or avoiding them altogether, you’ll be able to focus on sharing your message effectively.

Whether you meet me in person in London, Folkestone, or Kent, or join online from anywhere in the world, hypnotherapy can help you transform how you feel about speaking in public.

Next Steps – Book Your Hypnotherapy Session

If public speaking anxiety is holding you back this September, now is the perfect time to change that. Together, we can help you replace fear with confidence and turn speaking opportunities into moments you enjoy.