In my experience, I grew up with my family pushing me towards speaking on the theory I could somehow overcome stuttering. While this probably made me more comfortable speaking in some ways, in my 40s, my therapist suggested that, since there is both a physical component and a learned component, that it is OK to avoid speech on the days when the stuttering feels overwhelming. Over the years, I think it has helped to have my quiet days - with understanding for others. I don't refuse to talk but I do keep speech to a minimum and try to remember to smile so people can move on without worry. When the storm passes, my speech seems to feel a bit freer mostly, although I do need to warm up again. Varying the intensity seems to help me.