What is selective mutism?IN BRIEF
Selective mutism means being temporarily unable to speak. It can occur only in certain types of situations, in certain places, in certain contexts, or with specific people. Autistic people often experience selective mutism. They don't do it on purpose; it's not a form of protest or rejection of others. Rather, their ability to express themselves through speech is blocked. You should not try to force the person to speak, nor should you reprimand them.
Selective mutism is characterized by an absence of speech in certain contexts or with certain people. Selective mutism is temporary and not voluntary. While it is not exclusive to autistic people, many autistic people face this challenge.
Triggers
Even if a person expresses themselves without difficulty at home and with their family, they may suddenly be unable to speak in certain situations. Every autistic person is unique, and the triggers for selective mutism can vary widely from one person to another.
- Social anxiety
- Sensory overload
- Emotional overload
- Contact with specific people
- Crowded places
- Places where the person feels less comfortable
- Presence of unknown individuals
- A speaker’s accent
- A speaker's pace or intonation
- Use of a second language in public, even if it has been perfectly mastered
- Social situations
Understanding and using language appropriately can sometimes be complex for autistic people. In situations perceived as carrying a risk of social error, the anxiety generated may cause the person to lose access to verbal expression entirely.
Attention and concentration disorders
As ADHD is often associated with autism, difficulties with attention and concentration can make it harder to participate in activities that require speech.
Attention
You cannot force an autistic person to speak when they are incapable of doing so. It’s also crucial not to try.
Help and treatment
Selective mutism and its consequences can be reduced, but not eliminated. Autistic people can be guided towards techniques that help them better manage selective mutism.
Professionals
Depending on the reasons for the mutism, different professionals can provide valuable support. It’s best if they are trained in autism and selective mutism.
- Mental health professionals
- Speech and language professionals
- Psychoeducation professionals
- Speech therapists
- Psychologists
Techniques
Various techniques can help manage selective mutism:
- Relaxation techniques
- Anxiety management strategies
- Cognitive-behavioral interventions
- Practicing speech in ways that are playful and fun
Whatever method is chosen, efforts to access speech must respect the autistic person. Otherwise, there’s a risk of causing distress or exacerbating challenges related to speech.
If I suddenly perceive a negative emotion in someone, and even more so if I think I caused it, my speech can become blocked and completely refuse to come out. I know it’s there, I know it exists, but it’s trapped in a labyrinth of closed doors. My brain completely denies it access. I’ve also experienced this in anxiety-provoking situations. One day, I was running in the forest and came across a small wooden bridge with no visual cues or barriers to prevent a fall on either side. Not only was I unable to stand, but my ability to speak disappeared as well. It took at least 30 minutes for the words to return slowly. This impacts my autonomy, my safety, and my relationships with others. I’m autistic. That’s just the way it is. If people don’t pressure me, if they accompany me and respect this challenge without making a big deal about it, my return to normal will be easier and more positive.
