No confidence

Ok, Ive always been very shy, and found it difficult to talk in front of groups of people, but since I was bullied by a couple of girls a year or two ago its become so bad I cant do acting or speaking without shaking, feeling ill, sometimes even being sick or just getting really really worked up and nervous. I really need some help on this because its making me really really unhappy and I dont want to feel like that. If i know we are going to being acting the next day, I will spend all night crying and I cant sleep. Thats how bad its got. Please will someone help me out here, and give me some advice on how to get some confidence? :(

Ahh, I see. I know exactly whats wrong. What you are expereaencing is anxiety.

What can I do about it though? :(

When someone has anxiety, they have a strong fear that is triggered from either a physical or imagined "threat". These girls most likely triggered you to have a very strong fear of doing these things in public, and thus giving you something like a phobia. See, they have given you a false imagery of what would happen in front of a crowd, and your imagination has done the rest, to the point that you fear it. I know what your going through, I have anxiety too.

Try to concur it.

are you still there?

I had that, to ashamed to talk, and shy to. But to let people know your feelings, you would have to. You would feel so much better and push yourself. Meet those people and let them know how you are. I know it sounds horrible but it's the only thing you can do hun... i think....

I was bullied etc and had that and even though it seems stupid, I gained my confidence through acting. At first I used to get really embarassed but since I had to sing on stage, people have trouble keeping me quiet! See if you can go to a local small drama group and see how that goes. Worked for me.

Thanks so much guys for the suggestions. Im trying so hard to conquer this phobia. Ill definately follow your advice. :)

I forgot something last time; when you start to feel afraid, try taking a deep breath and avert your attention to something else. I know it's hard, but it's effective.