Why our speech gets worse after it gets better

Why our speech gets worse after it gets better I have been able to observe and identify a key part of why our speech often gets worse after a period of noticeable improvement. I believe understanding these dynamics is important in avoiding the self-criticism we apply when our speech regresses. While our speech is in a more fluent cycle, we engage in more speaking scenarios and naturally become more inclined to push the boundaries of our comfort zones. This escalation in stimulation builds up psychological stress over a period of what could be hours, days, or weeks. As soon as this stress buildup stops, perhaps due to the completion of an anxiety-provoking presentation or the end of a school semester, we face the [Let-Down Effect](https://health.usnews.com/health-news/health-wellness/articles/2016-01-06/the-let-down-effect-why-you-might-feel-bad-after-the-pressure-is-off). This phenomenon describes the scenario whereby chronic effects, in our case, stuttering behaviors, get worse after a wave of stress or stimulation dissipates. This describes my post-fluency regressions very elegantly. I suspect the case may be the same for those of you reading this. So what? How to use this information? First, don't blame yourself for speech regressions. Speech regressions are often not a fault of your own, but rather may be a testament to a great period of speech fluency that you had achieved prior. You should view these regressions as temporary and as a sign of prior accomplishment. Second, do your best to reduce stimulation and stress during a fluency cycle. Don't push yourself harder than you need to. You may feel unstoppable, but take it slow, your future self will thank you.