Getting Your Confidence Back in Social Situations

Have you stopped going to social events because of your speech?

Maybe you used to enjoy meeting friends for a coffee, chatting at family dinners, or taking part in community groups.
But now, you feel nervous, embarrassed—or even invisible.

If your speech has changed due to Parkinson’s, stroke, brain injury, or another neurological condition, it’s understandable to lose confidence.
But here’s the truth: you don’t have to stay stuck. Therapy can help you feel more confident again—step by step.

You’re Not Alone

Many of the people I work with say things like:

• “I avoid going out because I hate repeating myself.”

• “Everyone talks over me now, so I’ve stopped trying.”

• “I feel anxious that I won’t be able to speak clearly.”

• “I’m scared I’ll choke or slur my words in front of people.”

These feelings are incredibly common.
And they often lead to more isolation, fewer outings, and a sense of losing yourself.

Why Social Confidence Takes a Hit

When you’ve had a stroke, live with Parkinson’s, or face a progressive condition like MS or MND, communication can become hard work.
Your voice might be:

• Too quiet or hard to control

• Slurred or slow

• Hard to understand in noisy places

• Unpredictable when you’re tired or stressed

This can lead to:

• Avoiding conversations

• Letting your partner speak for you

• Feeling left out or frustrated

• Withdrawing from activities you used to love

But communication is a skill—and like any skill, it can improve with the right support.

How Therapy Can Help You Rebuild Confidence

Speech and language therapy doesn’t just focus on sounds or exercises—it helps you feel more in control of your voice and your interactions.

Here’s how:

✅ Voice Strengthening (Like LSVT LOUD for Parkinson’s)

Learn how to speak louder and more clearly, without straining.

✅ Planning What to Say

Practice how to start, join, or finish conversations—even if you feel nervous.

✅ Building Real-Life Skills

Rehearse everyday situations like:

• Ordering in a café

• Phoning a friend

• Speaking in a group setting

✅ Supportive Practice

You’ll work at your pace, in a safe space where there’s no judgement—just encouragement.

✅ Family Involvement

Loved ones can learn how to support you without speaking for you—so you feel heard and respected.

Success Looks Different for Everyone

For some, it’s:

• Speaking confidently to the grandkids

• Going to lunch with friends without worrying

• Saying your thoughts clearly in a group

For others, it’s simply being able to speak up without fear.

Whatever your goal, it’s valid—and it’s possible.

You Deserve to Feel Like Yourself Again

Losing confidence isn’t just about speech.
It affects your social life, your hobbies, and your sense of independence.

But you don’t have to give up the things that matter to you.
With personalised therapy, you can start showing up again—your way, in your time.