Nerves vs. Panic: Knowing the Difference

In media interviews, nerves and panic are often mistaken for the same thing. They’re not—and confusing the two is what causes many otherwise capable spokespeople to lose their footing under pressure.

Feeling nervous does not mean you lack confidence. In fact, nerves often appear alongside confidence, especially when the moment matters.

Nerves are a form of energy. They can sharpen your focus, quicken your breathing, and heighten your awareness. When managed well, that energy can actually support clear communication.

Panic is different.

Panic is what happens when your nervous system takes over. Thoughts race. Your mouth goes dry. Your voice tightens. Questions begin to feel like attacks rather than requests for information. That’s when interviews start to unravel - not because the spokesperson is unprepared, but because the body has shifted into threat mode.

The goal isn’t to eliminate nerves.
It’s to prevent them from tipping into panic.

The early signals are subtle but consistent: tight shoulders, shallow breaths, a rushing pace, an urge to explain everything at once.

When you notice those signs, that’s your cue to intervene. Pause. Lengthen your exhale. Plant your feet. Then deliberately return to your key messages.

You don’t have to feel fearless to handle media interviews well.

You just need tools that keep nerves from becoming panic - so you can stay grounded, clear, and credible when it counts.