0932 – Beta Blockers To Help Studio Nerves

2023.07.21 – 0932 – Beta Blockers To Help Studio Nerves

Beta-blockers

Perhaps one of the last resorts to cope with mic fright is the use of drugs.[1]

That could be drink, tobacco, (il)legal drugs such as cannabis, or some doctors prescribe beta blockers, which are usually for conditions like high blood pressure, arrhythmia and angina, but these, and tranquillizers, may help reduce your anxiety. You can see your GP to discuss if they are appropriate for you, how they work, the pros and cons including possible side-effects.

These work mainly by blocking the action of hormones like adrenaline to slow down the heart. They are safe for most people and can be helpful in the treatment of the physical symptoms of anxiety such as shaking, trembling, blushing, sweaty armpits, dry mouth for several hours. In short, it stops the body from going into fight-or-flight mode when there really isn't anything to fight or run away from.

In one survey[2] nearly three-quarters of musicians said they tried beta blockers, but so too do pop stars, and comedians, some athletes (those in archery, billiards, and sport shooting who need to have a steady hand), actors and public speakers.

The trouble is, whether it be pills or Pils[3], you’re not only likely dulling your inspiration and creativity (unlike drugs in sport, beta blockers relieve a problem rather than enhance a performance), but treating the symptoms rather than the cause. And beta blockers don’t help you with any of the worry leading up to, or following, a performance (self-doubt, anxiety about audience reaction and so on).

[1] Some ‘self-medications’ like excessive alcohol or street drugs may be addictive or have bad side-effects. In fact, anything in excess: exercise, comfort eating or restrictive eating. Listen to the short series of episodes from 874 onwards for more on this.

[2] https://composeddocumentary.com/2015-musicians-health-survey/ and http://www.oup.com.au/titles/academic/psychology/9780199586141

[3] Or ‘pilsner’ a pale alcoholic lager beer 

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