Do you have trouble with speech fluency? Have you found yourself repeating sounds, syllables, or words while trying to string together a verbal sentence? Stuttering, also known as stammering or childhood-onset fluency disorder, is a speech disorder that causes frequent disruptions in one’s fluency and speech. Individuals who stutter know what to say but have trouble communicating it. Some may repeat or prolong a word or frequently pause in their speech. While many may outgrow developmental stuttering, others may experience constant stuttering well into adulthood. In this month’s blog, we will discuss the symptoms and causes of stuttering and how hypnosis can be beneficial in treating it.

Symptoms of Stuttering

As mentioned above, symptoms of stuttering include difficulty with starting a word or sentence with frequent interruptions caused by repetition and pauses. Stuttering may also include physical tics such as rapid eye blinks, facial tics, head jerks, and fist clenching. Feelings of excitement, stress, pressure, tiredness, and so on can also worsen it.

Individuals who stutter may also find speaking in social settings or in front of large groups very difficult. However, it is known that some are able to speak perfectly when talking to themselves or while singing.

Causes of Stuttering

Stuttering can be caused by various factors. Development stuttering is very common in children as they learn how to develop their speech and language. Generally, this is outgrown and is resolved as they grow older. However, if stuttering continues on into adulthood, it may be due to a psychological issue. This can be caused by many things but it can also be a result of being bullied, abused, or ignored during childhood.

Genetic factors can also lead to stuttering. Families with a history of stuttering have shown that their children are more likely to also develop speech fluency problems, although the severity of it will vary. While researchers have been unable to pinpoint an exact gene, stuttering can be inherited from genetic abnormalities.

In more rare cases, stuttering is caused by a neurological issue such as brain damage from an accident or a serious fall. This is known as acquired stuttering.

How Hypnosis Can Help

If you are struggling with stuttering, especially if it’s due to psychological factors or trauma, hypnosis can be a very beneficial tool in learning how to cope with it and even eliminate it all together. Hypnosis works with your subconscious mind and addresses the root of the cause. It can ease stress and fears while helping you build your confidence.

There are various techniques when it comes to easing the symptoms of stuttering. For example, a hypnotist may use the regression method where the client is taken back to their childhood in order to identify the root of the problem. This may be a time in their life where they were bullied or ignored and had trouble finding their own voice, thus resulting in stuttering. A hypnotist can then help change the client’s beliefs about the situation and desensitize their reaction to the childhood memory. Of course, everyone is unique and has their own particular experiences and causes. It’s always best to personally consult with a certified hypnotist and find the best approach in improving your speech fluency.

Conclusion

Severe stuttering can be very impactful on your life. Here at the Mind Enhancement Center, our certified hypnotists have many years of experience working with clients and helping them with behavioral changes, including stuttering. Our specialized services are carefully tailored to each of our client’s needs. We always strive to provide a safe and comfortable environment and our door is always open to those who would like to explore hypnosis. Visit our website to learn more about our services or contact us at (817) 589-7407 for any questions.