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Genes Of Thrones Blog

Fear of Public Speaking Genetics and More - 23andMe

Let's talk about Fear of Public Speaking & Genetics #

Public speaking: the bane of many souls—right up there with spiders and Mondays. But what if I told you that your dread of standing in front of a crowd could have something to do with your genes?

How it works #

So here’s the scoop: when your brain senses a threat (like an audience staring at you), a little part called the amygdala kicks into gear. This triggers the classic “fight or flight” response. You know the drill: heart racing, palms sweating, and the overwhelming urge to find the nearest door. Studies show that those with a fear of public speaking might have a particularly excitable amygdala when it’s showtime. Just imagine your amygdala as a drama queen!

Image 1: A person speaking in front of others experiencing an increase in heart rate and blood flow.

The genetics behind the fear of public speaking #

According to researchers at 23andMe, they’ve found 802 genetic markers linked to the fear of public speaking. That’s a lot of markers! But don’t worry; it’s not just your genes at play here. Factors like age, sex, and even ancestry can stir the panic pot, too. So if your ancient ancestor took a tumble while attempting a speech at a family gathering, your fear might just be a hereditary thing.

Did you know? #

For those of you with a “public speaking phobia,” getting prepared and practicing can really help. Think of it like training for a dragon fight— the more you practice, the less likely you’ll be roasted! Speaking of preparation, sometimes chatting with a healthcare pro can lead to some insightful strategies.

Explore more #

If you’re itching to uncover what makes your amygdala tick, check out 23andMe’s Health + Ancestry Service. You’ll get personalized reports about your genetic makeup affecting public speaking and a whole lot more. Think of it less like a quest for the Iron Throne and more like an exploration of your own fantastic genome!

Image 2: Health + Ancestry Service Kit


So there you have it! Whether you’re a member of House Helix with bravado or a nohpeful speaker hoping to get through a toast without melting into a puddle of nerves, knowing that your genetics might have a hand in it can be oddly comforting. And remember, regardless of your genetic make-up, with a bit of preparation and practice, you can turn those sweaty palms into a victorious power pose.

Now go forth and conquer those speaking engagements—after all, every great story needs a brave protagonist ready to face the crowd!