How to use this page
Roz knows exactly how it can feel when someone is asking something of you in a way that makes it feel like a constant battle. She has lived through all of this — she is still living through it — and she has got you.
There is nothing wrong with knowing your own mind.
Roz — built from living it
My name is:
To the adults supporting me today:
Sometimes, when my anxiety levels get too high, my brain's automatic alarm system takes over. When this happens, my vocal cords physically lock up, and I cannot speak. This is called situational mutism. I am not ignoring you, and I am not being rude. I am stuck in a 'freeze' state. Please help me by using the silent tools below instead of asking me to speak.
Sometimes, when my anxiety levels get too high, my brain's automatic alarm system takes over. When this happens, my vocal cords physically lock up, and I cannot speak. This is called situational mutism. I am not ignoring you, and I am not being rude. I am stuck in a 'freeze' state. Please help me by using the silent tools below instead of asking me to speak.
Sometimes, when my anxiety levels get too high, my brain's automatic alarm system takes over. When this happens, my vocal cords physically lock up, and I cannot speak. This is called situational mutism. I am not ignoring you, and I am not being rude. I am stuck in a 'freeze' state. Please help me by using the silent tools below instead of asking me to speak.
Sometimes my brain's alarm goes off and my voice locks up. I cannot speak. This is called situational mutism. I am not ignoring you. I am not being rude. I am stuck in a freeze state. Please use the silent tools below. Do not ask me to speak.
If I have a phone, tablet, or laptop near me, I can text you a quick sign or a short sentence:
If you give me a whiteboard, a sticky note, or a notepad, I can write to you:
When words feel too heavy to type or write, I can use drawing to show you how I feel:
If I cannot text, write, or draw, look out for these silent physical signals:
Drop the order
Instantly remove the demand or task you just asked me to do. It can wait until I feel safe again.
Give me silent space
Stop asking me questions or trying to talk me through it. Sit quietly or walk away to give me room to breathe.
Take away the spotlight
Do not look directly at me or stand right in front of me. Sit side-by-side with me, looking at something else, so I don't feel under pressure.
Listen to my silent signals
If I point to a text or a sign, accept it straight away. Please do not argue or try to bargain with me.
DysPhilter® — built from living it