Yeah, I think you’re right, about it being a panic response to a large degree. And those patterns run deep. I’ve definitely been stuck in that cycle of avoidance, and over time those tactics only make the anticipatory fear stronger, even if it gives you some relief (fluency) in the short term. I’ve been doing some work on myself with anxiety in general. Or specifically the mental habits I’ve developed around anxiety. Like reaching for my phone to distract myself (short term relief that creates a vicious cycle). I’m realizing I have similar habits when it comes to stuttering and want to form healthier ones.