dottie
Well-known member
i struggle with selective mutism at 32. it is a perpetual obstacle that is a HUGE defining part of my life. i have so much potential but my inability to speak or connect with certain (most) people is a great hinderance.
i cannot say this because people will not understand and/or judge. in fact, i can speak around some people just fine and probably come across as pretty normal when i'm around them. but that's just it... it's selective mutism. i am fine around some people, but i cannot bring myself to speak or even look at other people.
and "selective" is not quite the right description since i don't select when to choke. it just happens around certain people/types. usually authority figures or people who have strong personalities. it's like fainting goats... except with eye contact, words, and vocal chords... there isn't much control. it just happens.
Fainting Goats - YouTube
i cannot say this because people will not understand and/or judge. in fact, i can speak around some people just fine and probably come across as pretty normal when i'm around them. but that's just it... it's selective mutism. i am fine around some people, but i cannot bring myself to speak or even look at other people.
and "selective" is not quite the right description since i don't select when to choke. it just happens around certain people/types. usually authority figures or people who have strong personalities. it's like fainting goats... except with eye contact, words, and vocal chords... there isn't much control. it just happens.
Fainting Goats - YouTube