Performance anxiety and fear of communicative situations

Feeling nervous is common when giving presentations and engaging in group communication as part of university studies.
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Feeling nervous in situations involving public speaking and group communication is quite common in university studies. Usually, this nervousness is not visible to others, although one might assume so based on internal feelings and thoughts. This is why it is not always apparent how common being nervous really is, which is why it might sometimes feel like you are the only one who is nervous. 

Movi offers courses to support you in alleviating  performance anxiety, and gives you opportunities to practice a wide range of communication situations. You do not have to know how to do everything straight away! When dealing with your own nervousness, it is important to accept yourself, including any feelings of unease. 

Facing performance anxiety head on diminishes it – turning away makes it bigger.

There are many ways to alleviate anxiety

Because the causes of anxiety can be different for different people, the methods to relieve it can also work in different ways. So, take on the challenges you face in your studies and seek support if you need it. Some of the ways you can get help include the following:  

Movi’s courses for developing confidence in presenting and communicating

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In addition:
  • Spending time with Movi’s care and reading dogs may help relieve anxiety.
  • When you are getting ready to give a presentation: (currently available only in Finnish). 

Goodies – student wellbeing advisers (Hyvikset)

You can talk with a Goodie about the anxiety you feel in different learning situations and ways in which you could participate in the lessons.

The Student’s Compass

In the program, you can, for example, do various exercises related to mindfulness, flexible thinking, compassion, positive mindset  or relaxation. 

Other ways to alleviate anxiety

  • Talking about anxiety with your peers
  • Challenging prevailing ideas about speaking and presenting
  • Exercises in compassion
  • Positive thinking and imagery training
  • Exercises to relieve tension in the body (e.g., relaxation, physical activity)
  • Medication to relieve physical symptoms
  • Therapy

Student and academic affairs at Movi

Student wellbeing

Student Life offers a variety of wellbeing support services for all students at JYU.