Selective/situational mutism

From what i know (a lot of research and a brother with SM) its often sudden onset. Like you move school or experience something traumatic and then find yourself unable to speak. It’s an extreme response to anxiety- this can be social anxiety but can be others like separation anxiety or school phobia. It’s not just worry about speaking, it’s a physical inability to speak. People with SM will tense up completely on their way to school or a social event and exhibit other symptoms like nausea. Obviously though it is different for everyone!
With your situation, my advice would be to talk to someone about why you are worried and see if you can sort that out.

Thank you for your imformation! I have had points where I have been un able to talk before but its only lasted for hours, which we believe to be because of sensory overload or shutdowns. I'm not sure if this changes anything? I am totally aware that it is where you physically cant speak, even if you want to!! My heart goes out to those affected by this. Sorry to hear your brother has it, I hope things are better now

Shutdowns can cause you to lose verbal abilities but thats different. I experience shutdowns due to sensory differences too but selective mutism is consistent in a certain place or when you’re talking to individuals outside of a small number of trusted people generally speaking. Hope that makes it clearer!

Ih gosh, sorry, i didnt mean to imply they were the same at all!! Sorry! I was just mentioning how i understood that some things are involuntary! Thank you for your help anyway!