Overview
Selective Mutism is a rare condition characterised by a child's anxiety, fear or phobia of having to speak at school or in other social settings. Selective Mutism is normally noticed in children when they start school, but the condition can be present at all age levels including adolescents. Children with Selective Mutism might avoid eye contact, blush, freeze or stare blankly when addressed by people with whom they are unfamiliar.
Causes
Many factors are thought to contribute to Selective Mutism, including:
Detection & Treatment
Treatment of children or adolescents with Selective Mutism involves a combination of methods and ways:
Psychological therapy. Cognitive therapy (a form of talking therapy that aims to change the way a person thinks and behaves) is commonly used to help children with Selective Mutism overcome their anxiety of speaking. This is done by:
Use of medication. Depending on the of the condition, medication may be prescribed to help reduce symptoms of Selective Mutism. Talk to the child's doctor is you have any queries or concerns about medication.
Care Management
Support at home. Encourage your child to independent skills. Give the child responsibilities at home (e.g. with household chores). Encourage your child to purchase items that he wants (e.g. buying a favourite burger).
You can also help your child by being patient, understanding and supportive. Be encouraging and empathise with his or her challenges. Celebrate all small successes and be positive.
Where To Get Help
If your child has not yet seen a doctor and you suspect that he is showing signs of Selective Mutism, you may raise your concerns with your child's school counsellors. School counsellors are connected to our community mental health service, REACH (Response, Early intervention, Assessment in Community mental Health), which can provide further advice and assistance.
If your child is seeking help at our clinic, please raise your concerns with your child's doctor, nurse, or allied health professional.
Specialties & Services
