SuchGreatHeight
03-24-2006, 09:15 AM
Selective Mutism? It's basically a childhood anxiety disorder that causes an inability to speak in select social settings. For instance, being able to speak at home (in a comfortable, farmiliar setting) but not at school (social, uncomfortable setting).
The problem? I am 18 years old.
I have had SM since the age of 2, when I learned how to speak from a Speech Therapist. Don't get me wrong, SM has nothing to do with a language or communication disorder. Not being able to speak is like being paralyzed with fear in social situations (because of anxiety), and not an inability to comprehend and recite language.
Through the years I have tried CBT and numerous medications. But? Nothing. I still can not talk to people, including most family members and some friends.
I was hoping that somebody here either has, has had, or knows another who dealt with Selective Mutism. It isn't a popular known problem (I don't think?) and even more rare in adults. Even though I don't mind being the "quiet one", I was hoping to be able to order for myself at restaurants.
SGH
The problem? I am 18 years old.
I have had SM since the age of 2, when I learned how to speak from a Speech Therapist. Don't get me wrong, SM has nothing to do with a language or communication disorder. Not being able to speak is like being paralyzed with fear in social situations (because of anxiety), and not an inability to comprehend and recite language.
Through the years I have tried CBT and numerous medications. But? Nothing. I still can not talk to people, including most family members and some friends.
I was hoping that somebody here either has, has had, or knows another who dealt with Selective Mutism. It isn't a popular known problem (I don't think?) and even more rare in adults. Even though I don't mind being the "quiet one", I was hoping to be able to order for myself at restaurants.
SGH