I have to give a speech tomorrow for my oral communication class. Most of the time I think about it, and I feel like I might do ok. My problem is I will feel generally fine but then begin to sweat and turn red in the face and become very overwhelmed with anxiety when I actually get up there to talk. I've rehearsed my speech countless times; I have the whole thing memorized! I'm just concerned I'm going to freak out and crumble in front of everyone when I actually have to give the speech...

My question is: Do you think it would be helpful if I took diphenhydramine (sleep aid / benadryl) before I gave my speech? I know how I react to it. I will be very tired, but I can still walk, read and speak clearly. I mean it's just a slightly heavier dose of benadryl. It does give me a kind of "tipsy" feeling like I'm more relaxed though. This is why I'm thinking about taking it. Do you think it would be a bad idea? I really can't decide. Has anyone else been in a similar situation?