Stuttering affects the fluency of speech and is characterized by “disfluencies” in the production of speech sounds. Some words are repeated and others are preceded by “um” or “uh.” This can impede communication when a person produces too many of them. In most cases, stuttering has an impact on at least some daily activities. The impact of stuttering on daily life can be affected by how the person and others react to the disorder.

Signs

• Repetitions of words or parts of words
• Prolongations of speech sounds
• Tense or out of breath when talking
• Stopped or blocked speech
• Interjections such as “um” or “like”

Treatments

• Learning new skills to improve communication
• Help with breath control
• Learn techniques for smoother speech
• Follow-up or maintenance sessions to prevent relapse

How Can I Communicate Better With People Who Stutter?

• Give them the time they need to speak.
• Don’t finish sentences for them.
• Don’t tell them to slow down or relax.
• Don’t treat them differently.
• Be interested in what they are saying, rather than how they’re saying it.

For more information on stuttering, call our office at (208) 535-1286.