It's important to note that I cannot provide a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for your situation. If you are struggling with communication or experiencing emotional difficulties, it's crucial to seek support from a qualified mental health professional who can provide personalized guidance and support.
Selective mutism, which you mentioned experiencing from ages 4 to 8, is an anxiety disorder characterized by the consistent inability to speak in specific social situations (often school or other public places) despite being able to speak comfortably in other situations. It's possible that your previous experience with selective mutism could be connected to your current challenges with speaking.
Several factors could contribute to difficulties in communication or feeling choked up when trying to talk:
Anxiety: Anxiety can significantly impact a person's ability to communicate effectively, especially in social or high-pressure situations like school or public speaking. Past experiences with selective mutism might have heightened your anxiety around communication.
Social Pressure: Being in your last year of school might be bringing increased stress and expectations, which could add to the pressure you feel when speaking.
Fear of Judgement: You may fear being judged or criticized by others, making it challenging to express yourself freely.
Low Self-Esteem: Low self-esteem can affect your confidence in speaking and sharing your thoughts and feelings with others.
Traumatic Experiences: Past traumatic experiences can also influence how comfortable you feel speaking up or expressing yourself.
Seeking support from a mental health professional can be incredibly beneficial. They can help you explore the underlying reasons for your difficulties and provide appropriate strategies to overcome these challenges. Depending on your specific needs, therapy options like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, or other forms of talk therapy may be helpful.
In addition to professional help, you might find the following tips useful in improving your communication:
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, mindfulness, and relaxation exercises can help reduce anxiety and promote a calmer state of mind when communicating.
Start Small: Begin by engaging in low-stress, one-on-one conversations with someone you trust before gradually building up to more challenging situations.
Focus on Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate your efforts and progress, no matter how small they may seem. Positive reinforcement can boost your confidence and motivation to continue improving.
Seek Supportive Environments: Surround yourself with understanding and supportive individuals who encourage you to express yourself at your own pace.
Remember, it's okay to seek help and take your time to work through these challenges. Be patient with yourself, and know that with the right support, it is possible to overcome communication difficulties and anxiety.