DIAGNOSIS
In diagnosing mutism for children, doctors should perform a physical examination and counseling. Children should also show the following symptoms in addition to the main symptom to diagnose the problem correctly. Selective mutism indications must have existed for at least one month, not just the first month in schooling. Your kid must also be able to interpret spoken language and talk properly in certain contexts.
Finally, your children’s lack of communication must affect his or her academic or social performance. Selective mutism is not diagnosed in kids who stop speaking briefly after moving to a new country or witnessing a stressful experience.
TREATMENT
When selective mutism is detected early, it is more amenable to treatment. If your children have been quiet at school for months or more, therapy should be initiated right once. Psychotherapy, medication, or a blend of the two may be used in rehabilitation.
Psychotherapy. It is a behavioral management technique that is used to treat selective mutism.
Medication. This may be necessary for some circumstances, particularly those that are severe or persistent, or when other techniques have failed to work.
Coping. There are some things you can do to manage your child condition in addition to getting proper therapy.
- Choose activities that are appropriate for their present abilities.
- Informed the instructors and others who interact with your child about his or her condition.
- Don’t place additional stress on your child.
- Encourage progress rather than punishing it.
