Cluttering

Cluttering is a speech disorder that affects the fluency of speech. Unlike other disorders those who suffer from cluttering are sometimes not even aware of their condition or precisely when they clutter their speech. Most members of the general public are not aware of cluttering as a recognised speech disorder either. Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about cluttering.

What is Cluttering?

Cluttering occurs when an individual’s speech accelerates to a more rapid pace than normal, when the individual (often unconsciously) repeats syllables or phrases, and/or when an individual goes back to repeat things multiple times in an effort to make his or her speech more clear. When these occur, the individual’s speech literally becomes cluttered.

What are the Causes of Cluttering?

There is no single cause of cluttering, and in fact there may be medical causes of cluttering that are unique to the individual. Conditions that affect concentration may be related to an individual’s cluttering, and there may even be some prescription medications that are used to treat independent illnesses or conditions that could also bring about cluttering as a side effect. The use of alcohol or drugs such as marijuana/cannabis may also influence cluttering.

Does Cluttering Ever Go Away?

If cluttering is brought on by alcohol, drugs or prescription medication then it may go away when these substances are no longer being used. If cluttering is associated with another condition, it may be alleviated in line with the progress of that condition. Some individuals affected by cluttering, however, will deal with it indefinitely.

Can Individuals Affected by Cluttering Communicate?

Of course. Like stuttering or stammering, cluttering simply means that verbal communication is less efficient than it might be otherwise. Cluttering certainly does not preclude an individual from communicating, but it may mean that (s)he will need to consciously slow his or her speech and think through what (s)he would like to say. Stress may have an adverse effect on cluttering, so all efforts to stay relaxed while communicating should help, though at the very least they won’t hurt.

What If Speaking is Difficult for Someone with Cluttering?

Speaking will be difficult for someone affected by cluttering, but this does not mean that others should shy away from speaking with him or her. Instead, others should be sure to allow the individual as much time as is necessary for him or her to complete a communication. Others should avoid interrupting someone with cluttering, and should not finish his or her sentences. If others cannot understand something due to cluttering, they should be honest about it and continue to communicate until both parties are clear.

Is there a Cure for Cluttering?

No, there is not a single recognised cure that will stop all cases of cluttering. However, speech and language therapy is usually useful in overcoming cluttering to a certain extent, and cluttering that is associated with another condition or substance may be alleviated in line with the recovery of that condition or when the substance is no longer ingested.