
Begin Again with Davina McCall What Happens When You Lose Your Sense of Self?: Begin Again Moments
Mar 9, 2026
Tom Davis, comedian and actor who stepped away from stand-up while battling anxiety and imposter feelings. Professor Steve Peters, psychiatrist and author of The Chimp Paradox, who explains the human, chimp and computer model. They talk about losing your stage persona and self-belief, how alcohol and pressure affected performance, and practical brain-training tools like pausing reactions and daily mental clearances.
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Comedian Took Six Year Break Due To Anxiety
- Tom Davis describes stepping away from stand-up for six years after anxiety and imposter syndrome stripped his in-the-moment confidence.
- He drank before and after gigs, felt physical panic (can't eat, racing heart), and feared being exposed as a fraud despite early success.
Friend's Faith Kept Career Alive During Doubt
- Tom credits friend James Defond for unwavering belief that launched his career and attended gigs for years.
- That steadfast friendship contrasted with industry voices that made Tom doubt his authentic stage self.
Chimp Versus Human Explains Emotional Hijack
- Steve Peters frames emotional reactivity as the chimp (limbic) system hijacking decision-making and perspective.
- Moving blood supply to the 'human' frontal area via a pause restores rational thought and reduces impulsive survival reactions.






