Selective mutism identified as rare and misunderstood anxiety disorder

Selective mutism is identified as the least common anxiety disorder, affecting between 0.47% and 0.76% of the population. Unlike generalized anxiety or panic disorders, this condition is frequently misunderstood and can be mistaken for shyness, defiance, rudeness, or a lack of confidence.

Therapist Kamalyn Kaur explains that selective mutism is an anxiety disorder where individuals are unable to speak in specific situations—such as school or professional settings—despite being able to communicate comfortably in others, like at home. The term 'selective' often leads to the misconception that the individual is consciously choosing to remain silent, when in reality, their ability to speak is being hampered by intense anxiety.

Common symptoms include freezing, avoiding eye contact, appearing withdrawn or expressionless, and experiencing an intense fear of being judged or drawing attention to oneself.