Suddenly stuttering
Question
If someone develops a stutter after a traumatic event could it be a sign of a nervous breakdown?
Answer
Stuttering (also known as stammering or dysfluency) is a disorder of fluency characterised by various behaviours that interfere with the flow of normal speech and as the British Stammering Association (BSA) point out, about one person in every 100 stammers. In addition, people stammer in different ways so the term 'stammering' covers a wide range of behaviours. For example, one person may get blocked or stuck on a certain word or sound, another may repeat sounds, another may go back in speech and take a run at the difficult word, and yet another may do all of these things and many more.
People may develop a stammer for a variety of reasons, just as they may experience different forms of stammering. But it is not generally known to be triggered by psychological or emotional factors. You may like to consider calling the BSA helpline for further information, advice and support on 0845 603 2001.
Going through a traumatic experience is a difficult thing for anyone, and the emotional consequences of such a time can take effect in a variety of different ways. Problems with relationships, work, money, or any other number of things can leave a person feeling overwhelmingly anxious, depressed and stressed. When the feelings of anxiety, depression and stress get too big, the person may have a nervous breakdown. Although in medical terms there is no such thing, the term 'nervous breakdown' is applied to someone who is incapable of functioning in everyday life and unable to cope with daily challenges.
Everyone's experience of breaking down is individual. In a physical sense, an inability to sleep, loss of appetite and lethargy can leave people feeling exhausted. Consequently, this can result in feeling very emotionally unstable and drained; there may be a loss of confidence and self-esteem, which contribute to the possible underlying issues of anxiety and depression.
As feelings of anxiety and/or depression develop, some people find their daily lives are severely disrupted. For example, they may feel tired and de-motivated, unable to go to work, or even get out of bed and complete the simplest of domestic tasks. This loss of engagement with people and activities can result in the person withdrawing, making the breakdown a very isolating experience.
Usually, with the right support and treatment, a full recovery is possible. Visiting a local doctor (GP) can be a step forward, as they will be able to assist with exploring the options available. This might be in the form of medical treatment, such as antidepressants or tranquilisers or, perhaps, a talking treatment, such as counselling or psychotherapy. Alternatively, methods of relaxation through exercise or complementary therapies may be worth considering, e.g. yoga, reflexology, or reiki.
Some people cope with their problems alone or within their circle of family or friends. But it can be easier to speak in confidence to someone you do not know. SANELINE is available on 0845 767 8000, they offer non-judgemental emotional support and practical information to anyone affected by a mental health issue. In addition, ASSIST run a specialist helpline on 01788 560800 providing practical and emotional support to anyone who has experienced trauma.
Updated: 18/06/2010
Question answered by SANE
