How I Successfully Managed and Overcame My Stuttering

I can’t remember when I first started stuttering, but it must have been around the age of 4 or 5. My journey with stuttering began during a time when very little was known about this condition, and it certainly wasn’t much better understood in the 1960s, when I was young.

Fortunately, with assistance from my mother and a school nurse, my stuttering was under control by the time I reached the age of 8. This early intervention was crucial in managing the disorder effectively.

Understanding the Triggers of Stuttering

Often, stuttering could be triggered by a childhood illness such as measles or mumps. Stress from changing schools or even happy events could also bring on this affliction. As I grew older, I experienced a sort of voice stoppage which made speaking more difficult. For instance, when I was trying to say, “Let’s go to the———movies,” I would pause between words, making it quite embarrassing.

The Return of Stuttering in Adulthood

When I was around 19 years old, much to my relief, stuttering seemed to disappear altogether. However, this period of fluency was short-lived. One day, during my first job at a flower shop, I found myself struggling again when answering the phone. The stuttering returned in a significant way, leading to considerable embarrassment and anxiety.

Seeking Help and Solutions

Over the years, stuttering affected my confidence in a variety of situations. Even answering the phone in front of people was nerve-wracking because of the constant fear of stammering. This involuntary speech disorder could put a significant strain on any professional or personal interactions.

One of my first jobs was at a flower shop, where I waited on customers, designed bouquets, and answered the phone. I was content with the work, but when the phone name, "Flowers by Francine," hit me, the stuttering returned. It was particularly challenging to say the name Francis, with five F sounds which felt clumsy.

At home, my father suggested a simpler solution. He told me to say "Good morning" or "Good afternoon" before saying the shop's name to alleviate the flow of words.

After implementing his suggestion and seeing results almost immediately, I was relieved. This strategy worked like a charm, and the problem was solved. However, after my father’s passing, I found that stuttering returned temporarily. My sister and husband even completed my sentences during a family gathering to plan the funeral, further stressing my condition.

It took a few months for my speech to stabilize, and I finally sought help from a doctor and a speech therapist. These professionals played a significant role in my recovery. They provided valuable guidance and insights to help me manage my stuttering more effectively.

Professional Help and Words of Encouragement

My doctor told me that I was thinking faster than speaking and needed to slow my thought processes down. She reassured me that my voice sounded pleasant and that people would listen to me. Their support was invaluable.

Since then, I haven’t stuttered for over 15 years. This journey has been a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of seeking professional help. If you are struggling with stuttering, remember that you are not alone, and there is hope for improvement and fluency.