Lights, Camera… Stress: Managing Performance Anxiety as a Young Actor

Being on stage or in front of a camera can be exhilarating—but also nerve-wracking. As a young actor, you may feel pressure to perform perfectly, which can lead to anxiety. But here’s the good news: feeling nervous is normal, and there are ways to handle those jitters with grace.

Understanding Performance Anxiety: Performance anxiety affects many actors, young and old. It’s that little voice in your head that says, “What if I mess up?” or “What if they don’t like my performance?” But guess what? Every actor, even seasoned professionals, experiences nerves!

Behind the scenes, a young actor prepares for a photo shoot, managing performance anxiety with focus and determination.

Here’s how to help take the edge off:

• Breathe like a pro: Deep breathing can calm your mind and body. Inhale for a count of 4, hold for 4 and exhale for 4. It’s like hitting a reset button for your body.

• Visualize your success: Picture yourself nailing the performance. You’ve practiced, and you’re ready. Visualizing success can give you the confidence boost you need.

• Embrace the nerves: Rather than fighting them, accept that those butterflies can be part of your energy. They’re a sign that you care about what you do, and that’s a great thing!

  
  

If you’re a parent of a young actor, support them by helping them create a calm pre-performance routine. This could involve deep breathing, a warm-up routine, or even listening to calming music together.

As a mother of a child actor, I’ve witnessed firsthand how performance anxiety can impact auditions. It was early in my child's

acting journey when we noticed he began to get anxious during auditions. His palms would get sweaty, and he’d often repeat negative or fearful thoughts over and over in his head.

Instead of letting him struggle alone, I sat down with him and shared that everyone, even experienced actors, gets nervous. I explained how nerves are just a natural part of the process and, when managed well, they can work in his favor. Together, we practiced some deep breathing exercises and discussed how to visualize himself doing his best.

Though he was still gets a bit nervous, with the proper tools and support, my son is growing more confident. With each audition, he is learning to control the anxiety he feels, a lot better. He doesn’t get every role, but with each experience, he grows in handling the pressure, improving with each new opportunity.

Mental Health Resources: If performance anxiety feels overwhelming, it may be helpful to consult a mental health professional who specializes in working with young actors. Resources like the Entertainment Wellness Project offers a variety of strategies for managing anxiety in children and teens. Another great option is Deitra Baker, LMFT a therapist experienced in the unique challenges faced by those in the entertainment industry.

Performance anxiety doesn’t have to hold you back. Use it as a tool to get in the zone and give your best performance. With practice and patience, you’ll learn how to turn nerves into your secret superpower.