“I Can Talk, But No One Understands Me” – What Now?

“I can talk... but no one understands me.”

If this sounds like you, you're not alone.

Many people with conditions like stroke, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis (MS), or brain injury say the same thing. You can speak – but it feels like your words aren’t landing. People ask you to repeat things. Conversations feel like hard work. Sometimes, they talk over you or answer without really understanding what you said.

This can be frustrating, upsetting, and even isolating.

But there is help. And there are practical things you can do to feel heard and understood again.

Why Is My Speech Not Clear?

There are a few reasons your speech might not be understood, even if you’re able to talk:

• Slurred speech (dysarthria): Your speech muscles may be weaker or slower due to neurological changes.

• Mumbled or quiet voice: Conditions like Parkinson’s can affect voice loudness and clarity.

• Speed of speech: You may be speaking too fast or too slowly, making it harder for others to follow.

• Breath support: Weakness in breathing muscles can reduce your volume and stamina for speaking.

• Word-finding difficulties (aphasia): You might say the wrong word or pause mid-sentence.

Everyone’s experience is different. But if you’ve noticed these changes, it’s a sign your speech system needs support – just like a sore leg needs physio.

What Does It Feel Like?

You might relate to some of these:

• “People keep saying, ‘Pardon?’ or ‘What did you say?’”

• “I avoid phone calls because I get flustered when they don’t understand me.”

• “My partner speaks for me in shops or restaurants.”

• “It’s embarrassing when I have to keep repeating myself.”

• “I used to love chatting, but now I don’t bother.”

When communication breaks down, it affects confidence, relationships, and even independence.

The Good News: You Can Improve

Speech and language therapy can help you:

• Strengthen your voice

• Improve clarity and pronunciation

• Control your speaking rate

• Use breathing techniques for better volume

• Learn strategies to support conversations

• Build confidence to speak in everyday situations

You don’t have to accept things “as they are.” With the right support, communication can get easier again – even months or years after diagnosis.

Simple First Steps You Can Try

If you’re struggling to be understood, try these tips:

1. Slow down.

Take your time when speaking. Pausing between words and phrases can make a big difference.

2. Face your listener.

Make sure they can see your mouth and face. Facial cues help with understanding.

3. Say the topic first.

Start with a keyword, like “holiday” or “appointment.” This gives people a clue about what you’re talking about.

4. Use gesture or writing.

Pointing, using your phone to type, or writing down a word can help in tricky moments.

5. Ask for help confidently.

Say something like, “I might need to repeat myself – just let me know if you don’t catch it.”

When Should I Get Professional Support?

If communication is starting to affect your:

• Relationships

• Social life

• Independence

• Mood and confidence

…then it’s time to get support.

You deserve to be heard. Therapy can give you the tools to express yourself clearly and reduce frustration in everyday life.

You’re Not Alone – And You Don’t Have to Struggle in Silence

Whether your speech has changed due to a neurological condition or a recent injury, you’re not the only one going through this. And it’s never too late to make improvements.

Support is available. With the right strategies, many people regain control of their communication – and with it, their confidence, relationships, and voice in the world.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re ready to feel understood again, don’t wait.
Book a consultation with a speech therapist who understands your condition and can help you move forward with confidence.