- There is currently no cure for stuttering, but there are a few things that you can do to encourage someone with the speech disorder. Provide a relaxed environment so the person does not feel rushed to speak. Encourage conversation and do not ask a lot of questions. Speak to that person in a slightly slower and more relaxed manner to encourage them to do the same. Listen attentively and wait for them to finish speaking, don't interrupt or try to finish their thoughts. Be open and honest when they speak about their disorder. Let them know that others have the same challenges and it's OK to be different.
- Speech therapy may assist someone who stutters. The therapist will help the person learn to speak slowly and think about the words before he says them. The therapist can teach a patient relaxation techniques to help him before he begins to speak. Speech therapists will address the anxiety and depression that the stutterer feels when he is in certain situations. When the anxiety and depression are addressed, many times a lot of the problems can be minimized.
- Electronic devices can be used to help someone who stutters to become more fluent. One such device fits into the ear, much like a hearing aid. As the person talks he hears a replayed version of his own voice speaking. To the user it sounds as if he is speaking with someone else. Repeating words with this digital device can help promote fluency in some people who stutter.
previous post