I don't think it affects my actual stuttering, but it does make me more comfortable. If I am on a call, the caller now knows I am not breaking up. If I make a weird face, they know I am not having a stroke. Generally, I find self advertising makes taking with new people go more smoothly. Stuttering is a hidden condition. There is a saying that goes something like.. stuttering is what someone does when they try not to stutter. I agree with that. Advertising takes the fear away.