[Bookworm257]

Hello. So I've always had trouble making friends, which is why the only one I have is someone I've known since we were toddlers. I've always struggled to speak in certain situations. When I have to ask another classmate for help or for a pencil, I often find myself inching slightly closer and my face burns up and I can't get the words out of my mouth. It should be simple and take a few seconds, right? But for me, no matter how hard I try I physically cannot get the words out of my mouth. If someone asks me something I will also freeze up and not be able to answer them. I cannot start conversations. I finally actually tried last year to sit next to a lonely girl at lunch and start a conversation, but I froze. In my mind I recited the words, "Hello, my names X. How are you doing?" Over and over. I inched slowly closer to her, and my face was burning up. I was extremely anxious because all I wanted to do was say it but I could not. I just sat there, red-faced and unable to speak at all. I simply could not do it. Another situation is that my parents sometimes drag me aloing to one of their friends' houses for some sort of gathering or party, and I'll have to hide in a corner and stare at my phone so no one will talk to me, and if they do ask me something and try to talk to me I will not be able to say anything except sometimes a single word. Does this sound like it? I fully understand that a few people giving their opinions online is nothing compared to a full comprehensive diagnosis, but if a lot of you say it sounds like it I will certainly seek out a real diagnosis.

[BeaFlower]

Hi Bookworm257. I'm not sure, but it could be selective mutism or maybe social anxiety. In any case it would surely be worth seeking professional help, since it causes you so much struggle. I understand trying therapy can be hard at the beginning, but it can help

[amicus_curiae]

I was mute for over a year but I don’t recall if my DX was ‘selective.’

What you describe is more a social anxiety, I think.

My daughter has selective mutism and what you describe my daughter is exactly the same, I would ask a therapist (if you have one that is) My daughter was diagnosed by a speech and language therapist. She also has ASD.