Selective mutism
Selective mutism is a severe anxiety disorder where a person finds it impossible to speak in specific situations. This happens when they feel pressured to talk to certain people, causing them to freeze up and make speech seem impossible.
Misunderstandings about selective mutism can lead to isolation and increased anxiety for those dealing with it. It’s a condition that affects 1 in 140 younger people, yet it’s not well-known and often misunderstood. Therefore, gaining a better understanding of selective mutism is crucial to providing support to those affected by this condition.
Common myths
selective mutism
is a choice
It is a condition that’s completely out of an individual’s control. This anxiety becomes so oppressive that speaking becomes impossible even when they genuinely wish to communicate.
selective mutism
is just shyness
While shyness is a common personality trait characterised by discomfort in social situations, selective mutism is a clinically recognised anxiety disorder. Those with selective mutism experience extreme levels of anxiety that go beyond typical shyness.
you can grow out of it
If left untreated, it can persist into adulthood. Early intervention and appropriate therapeutic support are crucial in helping individuals with selective mutism overcome their challenges.
Symptoms of selective mutism
The unique nature of selective mutism can make it difficult to identify, leading to misunderstandings and potential misdiagnoses. Some common indicators include:
- Stillness
- Frozen facial expressions
- Avoidance of eye contact
- Displaying shyness or withdrawal
- Reluctance to engage in communication in certain situations.
Causes of selective mutism
The causes are complex and not always fully understood. Selective mutism is often caused by the presence of another condition. Some of these include:
Fear (Phobia)
It can be caused by a fear or phobia of speaking to specific people.
Anxiety
It is closely associated with anxiety and individuals with this condition typically exhibit heightened anxiety levels.
Speech and language disorders
Individuals with speech and language disorders or hearing problems may find speaking even more stressful.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Selective mutism can also manifest as a symptom of PTSD. In such cases, individuals may suddenly stop talking in environments where they previously had no difficulty.
“From a personal point of view, selective mutism feels like I am being strangled from the inside out. It feels like someone is trying to pull the tightest knot right in the middle of my throat. Whilst all of that is happening, there are a million words of what I want to say racing through my head in a matter of split seconds.”
Milo, one of our student volunteers in Change Mental Health, talks about their experience of selective mutism. Read more on Milo’s story here.
Treatment
There are multiple forms of treatment available for selective mutism, which include:
Behavioural therapy
Behavioural therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), is a crucial treatment approach. It helps people gradually overcome their fear of speaking by setting achievable goals.
Speech and language therapy
Speech therapy is essential, especially for people with speech and language issues. It focuses on improving communication skills, helping the child express themselves more effectively.
Family involvement
Parents and friends play a pivotal role in the treatment process. They work closely with therapists to support their child’s progress and create a comfortable and encouraging environment at home.
School Support
Collaboration with educators and school staff is essential. Teachers can implement strategies to foster communication, and school accommodations may be needed to facilitate the child’s progress in social situations.
support
If you are an educator or work in student support, Bloom and Your Resilience provides school staff with the opportunity to develop their skills and confidence in having open conversations about mental health and support young people in transitioning to higher education. Learn more about the different Young People’s Programmes and contact us for more details.
Our Advice and Support Service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm and 1.30pm), where advisers can signpost you to local support that most fits your needs, including our Change Mental Health services. We offer initial advice on money worries and help to deal with emergencies.
Contact 0808 8010 515, email us at advice@changemh.org or fill out the enquiry form on the Advice and Support Service page.
Other support
SMIRA is a UK charity supporting individuals with selective mutism, their families and professionals in health and education.
