The Management of Performance Anxiety with Beta-Adrenergic Blocking Agents

Abstract

Performance anxiety consists qf several symptoms experienced in the context qf public performance and is classified in DSM-III-R under social phobia. Performance anxiety must be distinguished from panic disorder, generalized social phobia, and generalized anxiety disorder. Petformance anxiety symptoms can be detrimental to both petformer and performance. These symptoms can be controlled by the j udicious use ofbeta-adrenergic blocking agents. The use qf beta-adrenergic blocking agents should be considered as part ofa psychiatric stress-management programJor these patients