Selective mutism? Situational mutism? No. I am a virtual mute.

Every now and then, whenever I share my experiences with selective mutism online, I’d get DMs on Instagram like “Just a gentle reminder that ‘situational mutism’ is the preferred term in our community.” I know they mean well, but I can’t deny how invalidating it feels to receive those messages. I’m part of the community too and the word “situational” doesn’t reflect my experience at all! I did try…