New workplace resource puts spotlight on communication anxiety and selective mutism 

A new guide is now available for employers to help create inclusive working environments for people with communication anxiety and selective mutism. 

The Spotlight On resource can help employers gain a better understanding of selective mutism and social communication anxiety. 

This guide provides practical advice on supporting employees experiencing these conditions. 

It was created by See Me’s workplace team alongside our volunteer Antje, who has experience of selective mutism.  

What is selective mutism? 

Selective mutism is not just shyness; it is a diagnosable anxiety condition that prevents a person from speaking in certain social settings such as at school, work, or in their community. 

People with selective mutism speak fluently in some situations such as at home with family but remain consistently silent in others.  

They are often paralysed with fear or shut down completely when unable to communicate; they may have a blank expression, or appear ‘frozen’ when expected to speak.  

It is also important to note that people with social communication anxiety and selective mutism might also experience self-stigma and may need reasonable adjustments to be able to complete parts of the job role. 

How will this help employers? 

Asking what would work for employers and what support they would need to have in place will give them and line managers the best chance to engage them meaningfully and safely. 

This creates the conditions for people to perform at their best.  

It also allows people to bring their full self to work, including their talent, knowledge, skills and abilities. 

Employers can really make a difference, creating supportive and inclusive organisational cultures, processes and systems where people experiencing social communication anxiety and selective mutism can feel supported to engage in a way that works for them and at their pace.  

 See Me volunteer Antje said working on the resource has been “deeply personal and incredibly rewarding”. 

She added: “As someone who experienced selective mutism and communication anxiety growing up, it felt empowering to turn that experience into something that could create real change.  

“It was also a reminder that lived experience has value—and that sharing it can help others feel seen and supported.  

“I hope this resource opens employers’ eyes to how complex and nuanced communication challenges can be—and that silence isn’t the same as disengagement.  

“With greater awareness, I believe workplaces can become more compassionate, flexible, and inclusive, allowing individuals with these experiences to thrive.  

“A little understanding goes a long way in creating safer, more productive environments for everyone.” 

What you can find in the guide 

The resource offers an explanation on selective mutism, the stigma surrounding it and how employers can help. 

It spotlights tips for support from the interview stage to considerations for in-work. Such as giving employees information in advance and asking employers to think about the format of interviews and group activities. 

You can access the guide and find out more about creating mentally healthy workplaces here.