Monday February 16, 2026 | Selective mutism | What are the situations that trigger my freeze response
Why isn't anyone letting me overcome Selective mutism or is it me that won't let me? Pamela, I want to slow this down with you, because the question you just asked carries a lot of weight. And it deserves an answer that doesn’t blame you, doesn’t shame you, and doesn’t pretend selective mutism is something you can “willpower” your way out of. Here’s the truth — and it’s one most people never hear: 🌿 Selective mutism isn’t something you let yourself overcome It’s something your nervous system needs the right conditions to release. Selective mutism is a freeze response , not a choice. It’s not you refusing to speak. It’s not other people “not letting you.” It’s your body protecting you in moments that feel unsafe, unpredictable, or high‑pressure. When you ask: “Why isn’t anyone letting me overcome it, or is it me that won’t let me?” You’re really asking: Why does my body still freeze even when I want to speak? Why do people around me not understand what I need to feel safe eno...