Selective mutism is a disorder in which an individual is unable to speak in specific situations. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders, selective mutism occurs primarily in childhood, although it can persist into adulthood. Children with this disorder may not be able to talk in school or around strangers but communicate appropriately with family members and trusted peers. Social anxiety often is a comorbid condition seen with selective mutism. By reducing anxiety in children with this condition, communication skills may improve.
Step 1
Practice deep breathing with a child who has selective mutism to reduce anxiety. Find a comfortable place to sit down and encourage the child to focus on breathing from his abdomen. To help the child, place your hand on his stomach. Encourage him to breathe in and out slowly to move your hand.
Step 2
Teach the child how to meditate. Depending on the age of the child, meditation can be successful in reducing anxiety. The child should sit quietly for 10 to 20 minutes before school or another situation where he is unable to talk. Find a word, phrase or picture that he can concentrate on to help him relax. He might want to picture a relaxing place such as the beach or repeat a relaxing word such as "calm."
Step 3
Role-play social situations with the child to help reduce anxiety. If his anxiety is related to a specific event, such as a school project or going to a friend's house, help ease the nervousness and reduce mutism by practicing conversational skills.
Step 4
Model calm and relaxed behavior for the child. Try to not show any anxiety or worry around him. Many children pick up behaviors and fears from adults.
Step 5
Monitor the child's diet and supplements. Caffeine, sugar and some medication can increase anxiety in some children with selective mutism. Make sure the child does not consume much sugar and avoids all caffeine.
Step 6
Ensure that the child sleeps enough at night and gets plenty of exercise. According to Dr. William T. Goldman, a psychiatrist, adequate sleep can help children respond to other anxiety treatments. Daily exercise can help to reduce anxiety.
References
- Medscape; Anxiety Disorder, Social Phobia and Selective Mutism; Bettina E Bernstein, et al.; September 2009
- "Contemporary Pediatrics"; Shy Child? Don't Overlook Selective Mutism; Richard H. Schwartz, et al.; July 2005
- Stress Free Kids; How to Reduce Anxiety: Yours and Your Child's; Gary G. Brannigan, et al.; August 2010
- Keep Kids Healthy; Childhood and Adolescent Anxiety Disorders; William T. Goldman
- Helpguide.org; Separation Anxiety in Children; Jocelyn Block, et al.; February 2011
