For many people, integrating back into life post-pandemic might seem challenging, with new heightened levels of social anxiety and general nervousness. If you are a parent of someone with Selective Mutism (SM) or have SM yourself, you are most likely aware of how daunting this reintegration may seem. If you are asking yourself how you can help yourself and others integrate back into normal life, there are many ways to help.
The idea of returning to normal might feel especially intimidating for those struggling with SM, but there are many important things to keep in mind as this transition happens. If you or your loved one has Selective Mutism, it is crucial to find healthy ways to manage your own stress. Coping with uncertainty is difficult, and in these abnormal circumstances, heightened anxiety is very normal. However, “what if” thinking is not healthy, and all it will do is intensify feelings of unrest. Modeling calm coping will benefit them [and you] immensely. Take it all one day at a time, and have confidence that your loved one will grow from this experience.
For school age children, school reopenings will involve changes, and classroom settings may look different than they used to. Students will most likely be wearing masks, and there might be plexiglass barriers implemented in learning spaces. If your child was getting used to the routine of school before we were called to quarantine last year, these new changes might cause anxious feelings to arise. Do your best to explain the new elements of school to your child beforehand, and make sure they’re aware of the changes that might be implemented. Anxiety tends to worry about the future that we can’t control. Help your child by educating them on the changes and structure that you are aware of. For children with an IEP or 504-plan, you may request that your child tour his or her classroom and meet his or her teacher(s) prior to the first day of class. Giving your child the gift of awareness instead of surprise can help alleviate some of those reintegration jitters.
Keeping up with therapy through this transitional period can also be extremely beneficial. If you are seeing progress with the help of SM-specialized treatment, allowing that structure to still remain can provide stability for both you and your child. If they are struggling with their new in-person setting, make sure your therapist knows. This phase can be a learning period, and can be a great starting point for future breakthroughs.
Remember that nervousness regarding the future is normal, especially after the past year of limited social interactions and online schooling. Your feelings are valid, and worrying about your child’s mental health is natural. Still it is important to keep in mind that a year out of school does not guarantee regression in public speaking. Every person’s anxiety is different, and while some individuals with SM have experienced more anxiety returning to school, some are finding it easier to speak with others after a period of virtual learning and other virtual social interactions. Remember to lead by example in using your own coping mechanisms, and have confidence in the progress made thus far.