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Journalism of Courage
Coldplay has been making headlines this past month as tickets for their Mumbai concert went live. Despite the calm, soothing vibe of the band’s music, frontman Chris Martin reveals a different energy in conversation. Known for his endearing stammer — often compared to Hugh Grant’s — Martin’s speech may falter, but his passion always shines through.
When he talks about something that excites him, “his eyes light up with little sparks, like a mad scientist detailing plans for world domination.” However, his stammer is a lifelong challenge that he continues to navigate while leading one of the world’s biggest bands.
Stammering, or stuttering as it is medically known, is a speech disorder that disrupts the normal flow of speech. According to Nikita Kirane, a Consultant Speech and Swallowing Pathologist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Navi Mumbai, stammering is characterized by repeated sounds, prolonged speech, or blocks where speech seems to stop entirely. It typically begins between ages 2 and 5, as children develop their language skills. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, it is believed to stem from a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.
Even after therapy and significant improvement, some individuals may still experience occasional stammering in adulthood. Kirane explains that factors like stress, anxiety, or emotionally charged situations can trigger temporary speech disruptions. Complex speaking environments or high-pressure moments may also provoke stuttering in individuals who are otherwise fluent.
Stammering is a dynamic condition; while therapy can help manage it, external factors can sometimes cause it to resurface. By understanding these triggers, those who stutter can learn to better manage their speech in challenging situations.
Yes, stammering is treatable and can be effectively managed, especially when intervention begins early. Speech therapy is the most common treatment for stuttering, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) like Kirane work closely with individuals to improve fluency. Therapy often involves exercises that emphasize breath control and speech pacing, which help prevent the blocks and repetitions that define stuttering.
Early intervention in children offers the best chance for long-term improvement, as their speech habits are still developing. However, people of all ages can benefit from therapy, and with the right techniques, many can achieve significant fluency.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
