Performance anxiety is a self inflicted state, based on an individual's perception of how others see them. It is defined an an anxiety, fear or persistent phobia which can be apparent in an individual due to the requirement for them to "perform" infront of an audience. This is usually apparent in people who have to partake in public speaking .Fear of public speaking (glossophobia) is one of the most common phobias. This anxiety can also administer itself when the person is required to participate in an activity that requires them to present themselves in public (for example driving tests, school exams etc.). Often, the anxiety can start weeks before the actual event and is activated by the anticipation of the event.

Performance anxiety can affect anyone, whether they are beginners or professionals at the performance in question. Athletes, musicians and even politicians can all suffer from performance anxiety. Their fear is that they will "underperform" and not live up to the expectations of people watching them.

Perforamce anxiety comes with some symptoms, including a fluttering or pounding heart; shaking in the hands or/and legs; diarrhoea; facial nerve tics or tremors and dry mouth.

Hypnosis uses reframing, relaxation and anchoring techniques to help combat the anxiety about to be faced.

'Using nerves to your advantage "everyone has them, champions use them"'