Hi! I’m Amie,

I'm a 17 year old student, who has selective mutism. Selective Mutism is a severe anxiety disorder where someone is physically unable to speak in certain situations. Selective mutism has controlled my whole life and still continues to do so, everyday.

​

I've constantly been discriminated against, by teachers, doctors, professionals, etc, for majority of my life because I've not been able to communicate in ways that society considers normal. But as I've grown older, I've found different ways to communicate, and discovered other ways to use my voice. And so, for the past 2 years, I've been trying to raise awareness of SM, in hopes that other people with SM will know they aren't alone, for those who have SM but are undiagnosed will finally find something that describes what they have/are going through, for the little kids who have SM won't fear going anywhere, in case someone doesn't understand. In the past 2 years, I've became friends with other teenagers who also have SM, and have been failed by services, many times too.

​

Children should be able to have a childhood where they shouldn't have to live in fear of whether their doctor/teacher is going to be understanding, they should be able to communicate in what ever way they feel comfortable in. They deserve to have a childhood which they express their voice freely, and not have to worry about their future so young. 

​

Through Aware SM, I'm hoping to spread knowledge and awareness about selective mutism, helping those who live with it. Aware SM helps to provide information about SM, personal stories and advice on how to cope, as well as how to support someone with it. I hope to make a difference and create a world where those with selective mutism can be heard.