Stammering at 17 can feel especially heavy because you’re at an age where communication and confidence matter a lot, whether it’s class participation, exams, or speaking on stage. First, know this: stammering is not a reflection of your intelligence or capability. Many people with stammers go on to become excellent professionals, speakers, and leaders..
I’d first try to understand when your stammering happens most only in front of people? under stress? or even when alone. Often, anxiety and self-consciousness make stammering worse
Next Steps
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): This helps reduce the fear and negative thoughts around speaking (“What if I stammer?” “It’s okay, I can still express my point”).
Exposure therapy: Gradually practicing speaking in safe, supportive environments, then slowly moving towards more challenging situations (like a small group, then a classroom, then a stage).
Relaxation training: Anxiety tightens the body and worsens stammering. Learning breathing techniques, mindfulness, and muscle relaxation can calm the system before speaking.
Consult a speech therapist (SLP): Psychologists work on the emotional side of stammering, but a speech-language pathologist trains you in techniques for smoother speech. The combination works best.
Safe practice: Begin practicing speaking in front of a mirror, then to a close friend/family member, then record your voice. Step by step, the fear reduces.
Health Tips
Slow down your pace. Many people who stammer feel pressured to “rush through” words. Slowing down and pausing gives you more control.
Breathing control. Before speaking, take a deep breath in, exhale slowly, then start. Shallow breathing makes stammering worse.
Don’t avoid speaking. The more you avoid, the stronger the fear grows. Even short daily speaking practice helps.