2024-11-13 14:49:00
November 13, 2024
Wanting to succeed is quite natural. Whether it’s a sport, studies or even work, it can even be beneficial to want to perform well. But when the pursuit of success causes significant stress and suffering, your mental health may be at risk.
Want to win a football match or a judo match, aspire to a baccalaureate honors or even want the best commercial results for your company. All of these goals are laudable and can be the source of fulfillment and well-being. And if they are associated with a little stress or stage fright, it’s natural. But if these goals lead to “ a state of apprehension, tension or unease caused by fear of failure ”, as described by the University of Sherbrooke (Canada), then you suffer from performance anxiety. And this is harmful to your mental health.
Indeed, when you suffer from performance anxiety, the consequences are numerous. When deadlines like exams approach, “ intense and repeated discomfort (can) lead some students to abandon their study program, to develop physical illnesses and even sometimes to adopt problematic behaviors such as the abusive use of performance drugs (energy drinks, stimulant drugs, etc.) », develops the example of the Quebec University.
Performance anxiety can also manifest as anxiety or panic attacks in certain circumstances. Somatic disorders are also often associated, such as migraines, digestive disorders, muscle tension, increased blood pressure, insomnia, etc.
What are the causes of this disorder?
Several factors can explain and promote this performance anxiety. First of all, some of us suffer from low self-esteem. A tendency toward anxiety can also come into play. Perfectionism also enters the equation. This is the “ tendency to place excessively high demands on performance that is accompanied by overly critical self-evaluation », Specifies the University of Sherbrooke. Gold ” perfection does not exist », recalls Sophie Maretto, psychologist in Paris.
And this search for perfection is “ accentuated by the ego-driven society in which we operate and which is fostered by social media likes and hearts, which are interpreted as assessing our worth as individuals “, she continues. Constant comparison promotes performance anxiety in all areas.
How to combat performance anxiety?
« It is important to congratulate yourself, reassure yourself, be gentle with yourself », advises Sophie Maretto. To accept that we cannot achieve perfection, we must “ accept your weaknesses, make peace with your history and forgive yourself “, she continues. It is in fact a matter of being “ be lenient with yourself, because we are not robots », she adds again.
But of course, when faced with a situation of high anxiety, it can be useful to seek help from a psychologist.
Source: interview with Sophie Maretto, psychologist in Paris – University of Sherbrooke, Quebec
Written by: Dominique Salomon – Edited by: Emmanuel Ducreuzet
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**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Clinical Psychologist and Performance Anxiety Specialist**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Carter. In light of recent discussions about performance anxiety and its impacts on mental health, could you explain what performance anxiety is and how it manifests in individuals?
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me. Performance anxiety is essentially the overwhelming fear of failing to meet one’s goals or expectations, which can lead to significant stress and discomfort. It can manifest in various ways, including physical symptoms like increased heart rate, sweating, and even panic attacks. Emotionally, individuals often experience feelings of inadequacy or fear that they won’t perform well in high-stakes situations, whether that’s in sports, academics, or workplace scenarios.
**Editor:** What are some common factors that contribute to performance anxiety?
**Dr. Carter:** Several factors can contribute to this anxiety. Low self-esteem is a major one; individuals who doubt their capabilities are more likely to experience heightened anxiety. Additionally, perfectionism plays a crucial role—people with perfectionistic tendencies set unrealistically high standards for themselves, which can lead to feelings of failure when those standards aren’t met. Lastly, societal pressures and the desire for validation can exacerbate these feelings, making it difficult for individuals to cope.
**Editor:** You mentioned that performance anxiety can lead to serious consequences. Could you elaborate on some of those?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely. The impact of performance anxiety can be quite severe. For students, the pressure to perform well can lead to academic abandonment or the development of physical health issues, like migraines or digestive problems. In extreme cases, individuals may resort to using performance-enhancing substances, like stimulants, which can further complicate their situation. It’s important to recognize that performance anxiety isn’t just about feeling nervous—it can have real repercussions on both mental and physical health.
**Editor:** How can individuals cope with or manage performance anxiety effectively?
**Dr. Carter:** There are several strategies that can help. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for many people, as it helps individuals reframe their thoughts and challenge perfectionistic beliefs. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can also alleviate anxiety symptoms. Additionally, fostering a supportive environment—whether through friends, family, or colleagues—encourages open discussions about performance fears and can be immensely helpful. Ultimately, recognizing that everyone experiences setbacks can help normalize the pressure we feel.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Carter, for sharing your insights. It’s important to understand these issues to foster healthier approaches to pursuing success.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me. Raising awareness about performance anxiety is crucial in supporting individuals in their personal and professional pursuits.
