Selective Mutism

I had a hard time in school cause I had "Selective Mutism"

(Selective Mutism is a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a child’s inability to speak in select social settings, such as school. These children understand language and are able to talk normally in settings where they are comfortable, secure and relaxed.

Over 90% of children with Selective Mutism also have social phobia or social anxiety, and some experts view Selective Mutism as a symptom of social anxiety. Others view it as a separate, but related, disorder.

It is not yet understood why some individuals develop typical symptoms of social anxiety, like reluctance to speak in front of a group of people or feeling embarrassed easily, while others experience the inability to speak that characterizes Selective Mutism.

What is clear is that children and adolescents with SM have an actual fear of speaking and of social interactions where there is an expectation to talk. They may also be unable to communicate nonverbally, may be unable to make eye contact and may stand motionless with fear as they are confronted with specific social settings.

This can be quite heart wrenching to watch, and is often very debilitating for the child as well as frustrating for parents and teachers.)

It was very Hard, I got in trouble for it alot. I went to the principle for some thing I didnt do cause I couldnt explain myself. It hurt when my teachers yelled at me for it. I was able to talk to family but that was it. I did have a few friends in school.

(More on this subject to come)