for high schools
Speaking engagements for high schools
The talk: Slaying the Panic Dragon · approx. 45 minutes · Q&A
The talk, adapted for high school students. Andrew's first panic attack came without warning and without a name for it. Students recognise that description immediately.
The premise
You cannot think your way out of panic.
the talk
One talk.
- 01
Delivered as one adult telling the truth, not as a lesson about wellbeing.
- 02
Language and examples are kept age-appropriate and reviewed with staff in advance.
- 03
Andrew speaks about his own experience only; he does not diagnose, advise, or counsel students.
what the room leaves with
- A plain-language description of what a panic attack actually is, and what it is not.
- Language for something most people in the room have never said out loud.
- The distinction between managing fear and refusing to organize a life around it.
- One person's account of what changed, told without exaggeration.
practical details
- A talk, roughly 45 minutes, followed by open Q&A.
- In person or remote.
- No slides required; a microphone and a room that can be quiet is enough.
- Content and language adjusted to the audience before the date.
- Suitable for an assembly, a year group, or a single class.
- Staff and parent talks can be arranged around the same visit on request.
speaking engagements
Start a conversation.
Tell Andy’s team about the speaking engagement you have in mind.