Mine started when I was 5 or so. Gradually taking hold. I became so fearful socially, going to school. I couldn’t understand how others around me in school appeared to have no difficulty speaking in class, whereas i became aware of this inability to speak even simple words….the lack of control, the shame. I came to see myself as defective, broken, hopeless. It coloured everything and no one seemed to have any idea how damaging it was for me, how stammering can dominate your life……I think lack of understanding is a major issue