What causes speech block?
James Williams
Updated on March 19, 2026
A speech block is created when you intend to do two things that are directly opposed to one another. As long as you keep trying to do them both, you will experience yourself as blocked. To better understand the nature of a block, let us examine it within a totally different context.
What is a blocking stutter?
Stuttering often develops into blocking, where the first letter or syllable becomes very difficult to pronounce and is in effect “blocked” from being spoken. When this happens the larynx closes, halting the flow of air.
How do I fix speech blocks?
Quick tips for reducing stuttering
- Practice speaking slowly. Speaking slowly and deliberately can reduce stress and the symptoms of a stutter.
- Avoid trigger words. People who stutter should not feel as though they have to stop using particular words if this is not their preference.
- Try mindfulness.
How do I unblock my speech block?
Pull-out
- When you are in the middle of a block, do not stop.
- Continue to stutter, but slow it down and let the block complete itself.
- Prolong the word. Stretch the sound you are stuttering on.
How can I stop stammering permanently?
Tips to help reduce a stutter
- Slow down. One of the more effective ways to stop a stutter is to try to speak more slowly.
- Practice. Reach out to a close friend or family member to see if they can sit with you and talk.
- Practice mindfulness.
- Record yourself.
- Look into new treatments.
Why do I struggle to speak clearly?
Difficulty with speech can be the result of problems with the brain or nerves that control the facial muscles, larynx, and vocal cords necessary for speech. Likewise, muscular diseases and conditions that affect the jaws, teeth, and mouth can impair speech.
Does stuttering ever go away?
Stuttering usually first appears between the ages of 18 months and 5 years. Between 75-80% of all children who begin stuttering will stop within 12 to 24 months without speech therapy. If your child has been stuttering longer than 6 months, they may be less likely to outgrow it on their own.
What is the difference between a stutter and a stammer?
There is no difference – sort of. A quick Google search will give you a number of answers, with many people claiming that a stutter is the repetition of letters, whereas a stammer is the blocking and prolongations.
How can I speak fluent without stammering?
One of the more effective ways to stop a stutter is to try to speak more slowly. Rushing to complete a thought can cause you to stammer, speed up your speech, or have trouble getting the words out. Taking a few deep breaths and speaking slowly can help.
Does stuttering get worse with age?
Stuttering typically is first noticed between the ages of 2 and 5. It usually goes away on its own within a matter of months. In a small number of children (around 1%), stuttering continues and may get worse. Boys are more likely to stutter than girls.
When do you have an unavoidable speech block?
When an unavoidable block occurs, you may change the word or pretend you forgot the word. 2. People know you stutter or have some sort of speech impediment, but it’s the elephant in the room. Family, friends, and/or coworkers have heard you stutter, but no one talks about it.
What does it mean to have a speech impediment?
‘Speech and language impediment’ is a very broad term that refers to a communication disorder in an individual that has depressed social, language, communication, hearing, or fluency skills. A speech impairment relates to the way an individual produces or articulates specific sounds.
Which is an example of a speech impairment?
A speech impairment relates to the way an individual produces or articulates specific sounds. One example of this is stuttering. Under the umbrella of a speech impairment lies several different types of disorders with which a child or adult can be diagnosed. A language impairment involves understanding and sharing thoughts and ideas.
What do you mean by I was hit by a speech block?
The blocks seem as if they are not connected to us, giving rise to such phrases as “I was hit by a speech block.” In response, we search for explanations. You hear statements such as, “Speech blocks are genetic.” — a prime example of using one unknown to explain another. But when you understand what a block is about, it begins to make sense.