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Can Anxiety/ Stress Cause Speech Problems?
Question: can anxiety/stress cause speech problems?
Brief Answer:
Yes
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I understand your concern. Abnormal levels of stress and anxiety are known to cause overall impairment in the way our body and mind functions. It may cause coordination and thinking problems, which may also affect speech, on the motor level (muscles and tongue) and the thought process.
This speech impairment, which is a symptom of anxiety may manifest as difficulty or awkwardness in speaking, in pronouncing words, in moving the mouth and lips and being self conscious when talking. This can happen at a varying frequency and may be a rare, irritating occurrence in some people or a constant problem for some others.
The speech difficulties caused by stress and anxiety usually resolve with the reduction of the levels of stress to normal, however, it is very important to do a full medical evaluation to exclude other causes such as stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, a brain tumor or other neurological conditions.
There is a lot of treatments for stress and anxiety, such as a change in life style, sports, meditation techniques and resolution of the cause of stress, however, if your anxiety is interfering with your daily life, you need to see a mental health professional for further evaluation and medication.
I hope this answers your question satisfactorily. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Yes
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I understand your concern. Abnormal levels of stress and anxiety are known to cause overall impairment in the way our body and mind functions. It may cause coordination and thinking problems, which may also affect speech, on the motor level (muscles and tongue) and the thought process.
This speech impairment, which is a symptom of anxiety may manifest as difficulty or awkwardness in speaking, in pronouncing words, in moving the mouth and lips and being self conscious when talking. This can happen at a varying frequency and may be a rare, irritating occurrence in some people or a constant problem for some others.
The speech difficulties caused by stress and anxiety usually resolve with the reduction of the levels of stress to normal, however, it is very important to do a full medical evaluation to exclude other causes such as stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, a brain tumor or other neurological conditions.
There is a lot of treatments for stress and anxiety, such as a change in life style, sports, meditation techniques and resolution of the cause of stress, however, if your anxiety is interfering with your daily life, you need to see a mental health professional for further evaluation and medication.
I hope this answers your question satisfactorily. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
I wouldnt say my speech has changed to much but at times it seems like some words are more difficult to pronounce and im very aware of it and always thinking about it which i think makes it worse, you would say this is anxiety?
also just started a new job could that cause anxiety?
Brief Answer:
Sounds like anxiety related speech problem
Detailed Answer:
Yes, It does sound like a stress and anxiety related speech problem.
Also, starting a new job can be very stressful and may directly affect your self-confidence and, as a result, your speech and fluency. As you settle in this new job and gain more confidence, you should start to see improvement with the way you talk and act.
Try to notice if the speech problem is also present when you are relaxed, in familiar company, with people you are comfortable with, or when doing something you enjoy. If not, then it is a sure sign that it is anxiety related. If you still have problems with speech, even in a non-stressful environment, then I'd suggest you talk to your doctor for further evaluation.
I hope this answers your question satisfactorily.
Let me know if I can help you further.
Take care
Sounds like anxiety related speech problem
Detailed Answer:
Yes, It does sound like a stress and anxiety related speech problem.
Also, starting a new job can be very stressful and may directly affect your self-confidence and, as a result, your speech and fluency. As you settle in this new job and gain more confidence, you should start to see improvement with the way you talk and act.
Try to notice if the speech problem is also present when you are relaxed, in familiar company, with people you are comfortable with, or when doing something you enjoy. If not, then it is a sure sign that it is anxiety related. If you still have problems with speech, even in a non-stressful environment, then I'd suggest you talk to your doctor for further evaluation.
I hope this answers your question satisfactorily.
Let me know if I can help you further.
Take care
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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