Researchers currently believe that stuttering is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, language development, environment, as well as brain structure and function[1]. Working together, these factors can influence the speech of a person who stutters.

What causes stuttering all of a sudden?

A sudden stutter can be caused by a number of things: brain trauma, epilepsy, drug abuse (particularly heroin), chronic depression or even attempted suicide using barbiturates, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Can stuttering be triggered?

Stress-Related Stuttering Serious stress caused by financial problems, loss of a relationship or other unexpected emotional changes can trigger a speech disorder. Things such as a car crash can also be a cause, but the speech disorder could be coming from the stress or an injury to the brain.

Can anxiety cause stuttering?

Stuttering may also sometimes occur when a person is under a great deal of emotional distress. For example, people with social anxiety disorder (SAD) may sometimes stutter when they are in stressful social situations.