Introduction

The crux of this blog topic is Selective Mutism – I am skeptical whether all are aware of this disorder. Selective Mutism is often overlooked and rare. Thus the need to discuss and share this topic is crucial. SelectiveMutismis often confused between shyness and anxiety. As a result, it is critical to recognize the signs and symptoms of SM. It is vital to be aware of it to prevent the development of any future disorders.

Generally, people consider Selective Mutism a disorder related to the lack of speech. This disorder is so rare; that at times it is challenging to notice it. It is most common amongst children. Usually, children who cannot speak and express themselves in social settings are associated with selective mutism.

Selective Mutism may cause significant impairment in a child’s life. It interferes with the kid’s life, both socially and academically. It restricts the child from engaging in several fun-filled activities that need verbal communication, such as playdates, etc.

Selective Mutism Symptoms

It is critical to be aware of all Selective Mutism signs and symptoms. This childhood anxiety disorder is not just related to shyness or anxiety. In this case, the child becomes nonverbal in certain situations despite being able to communicate easily at home or in relaxed settings.  Some prominent symptoms related to Selective Mutism are as below:

  • A child is chirpy and talkative when at home amongst family members but becomes nonverbal in socially awkward situations, amongst strangers, or in public settings.
  • Difficult for a child to form friendships with peers, unable to participate in activities at school.
  • Display temper tantrums
  • Rigid body posture, frozen facial expressions, slow to respond, and clings to parents when at public places or other social gatherings.

Treatment of Selective Mutism

The best part of all this is that can be cured with a specific treatment program. It is inevitable to undergo a comprehensive evaluation to have a diagnosis. Generally, the treatment for SM includes medications, psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or sometimes a combination of two is applicable.

Learning to deal with anxiety

Each member in a child’s life must get involved while treating the child with SM. If the child gets apprehensive or nervous while ordering at a store, the family member should immediately pitch to answer what the child wishes to buy from the store. The goal here is to reduce the child's anxiety.  The treatment program focuses not just on the speaking up part but to reduce the anxiety levels associated with speaking. It is vital to reassure the child that they will be able to speak up gradually when they are ready.

Tips for Helping Kids Talk

Parents can help their children to cope in different social settings to reduce their anxiety levels. Inform their peers and school staff, teachers about the child’s disorder. Avoid negative support and praise. It can be treated with compassion, understanding, and patience. Children should not be pressured for not making any progress. Instead, consult a psychologist to suggest changes in the child’s activities for a better outcome.

Helping Older Kids

Treating older children with SelectiveMutism is challenging as, by this age, they have become better at avoiding situations that may require a conversation. The longer the teenager misses out on social learning opportunities and academics, the more likely they are impacted. Teens and older children may face difficulty with their long-standing habits, additional anxiety disorders, peer relationships, and depression. Older teens may get inclined towards the consumption of drugs or alcohol to ease their anxiety. Among the treatment options are intensive behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. It helps them to challenge their thoughts and understand their feelings and behavior.

Bilingual Children

Generally, SM occurs in those children who speak two languages compared to children who speak only one language. SelectiveMutism occurs in children who are anxious when required to speak in a language with which they are unfamiliar. Thus, careful analysis and observation are essential to cure Selective Mutism in bilingual children.

Conclusion:

Despite all of the indications of Selective Mutism, many people believe that a child will grow out of it as they become older. But, this is not always the case. If your loved ones have Selective Mutism, it would be wise to seek professional diagnosis and treatment from a renowned psychologist and child development center in Hyderabad at TruHap. 

Visit us at : www.truhap.com