(F94.0) Elective mutism

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69 675 in individuals diagnosis elective mutism confirmed
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2 681 deaths with diagnosis elective mutism
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4% mortality rate associated with the disease elective mutism

Diagnosis elective mutism is diagnosed Men are 3.49% more likely than Women

36 054

Men receive the diagnosis elective mutism

2 681 (7.4 %)

Died from this diagnosis.

100
95
90
85
80
75
70
65
60
55
50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
33 621

Women receive the diagnosis elective mutism

0 (less than 0.1%)

Died from this diagnosis.

Risk Group for the Disease elective mutism - Men and Women aged 10-14

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In Men diagnosis is most often set at age 0-39
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Less common in men the disease occurs at Age 0-1, 40-95+Less common in women the disease occurs at Age 0-1, 20-34, 50-54, 60-64, 70-74, 85-95+
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In Women diagnosis is most often set at age 0-19, 35-49, 55-59, 65-69, 75-84

Disease Features elective mutism

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Absence or low individual and public risk
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Elective mutism - what does this mean

Elective mutism is a childhood anxiety disorder in which a child is able to speak but chooses not to in certain situations. it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, environment, and psychological issues.

What happens during the disease - elective mutism

Elective mutism is believed to be caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. biological factors may include an inherited tendency toward shyness or anxiety, which may be exacerbated by psychological factors such as fear of embarrassment or rejection. environmental factors such as bullying or trauma may also play a role in the development of elective mutism.

Clinical Pattern

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How does a doctor diagnose

  • Conduct a physical examination to rule out any medical conditions that may be causing the symptoms.
  • Conduct a psychological evaluation to assess for any underlying mental health issues or developmental problems.
  • Conduct a speech and language assessment to determine the severity of the condition and the presence of any other speech and language disorders.
  • Conduct an educational assessment to determine the child's academic abilities.
  • Conduct a family assessment to determine the family dynamics and the role of the family in the child's development.
  • Conduct an environmental assessment to determine the child's environment and any potential stressors.
  • Conduct an assessment of the child's social skills and interactions.
  • Conduct a hearing assessment to rule out any hearing problems.

Treatment and Medical Assistance

Main goal: To reduce the symptoms of elective mutism and help the patient to communicate more effectively.
  • Identifying the triggers of the patient's anxiety
  • Providing psychotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Encouraging the patient to practice social skills in a safe environment
  • Helping the patient to build confidence in speaking
  • Teaching the patient relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety
  • Providing family therapy to help the patient to communicate better with family members
  • Encouraging the patient to participate in activities with peers
  • Developing a plan to gradually increase the patient's comfort level with speaking
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73 Days of Hospitalization Required
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Average Time for Outpatient Care Not Established

Elective mutism - Prevention

Elective mutism is best prevented by providing an environment that is safe and supportive for children to express themselves. this can include creating a trusting relationship with the child, providing positive reinforcement for communication attempts, and building self-esteem. additionally, helping the child to develop effective coping skills for anxiety and stress can also be beneficial in preventing elective mutism.