Anxious or Traumatized

by Lisa
(St. Peters, MO )

I have a 9 year old son who is having some problems. He has always been afraid of air vents and vacuums, so still sleeps with us. He had the stomach flu about a month and a half ago and he still talks about it. He says that he can't help it and asks why he can't get over it. He worries about it everyday.

Now he doesn't want to go to school. He says that he misses me so much and he is clingy. He told me this morning that he must be a coward because he can't get over his fear. He also tells me that he needs help, that I should take him to a psychiatrist.

He has gone to the nurse's office three times this week complaining of stomach aches. He doesn't want to play with other kids either. Even kids he really likes.

Do you think he has anxiety and/or depression?

I forgot to metion that I have bipolar disorder and his dad has had depression.


Lisa,

It seems to me that this is definately anxiety. Depression can also result from untreated anxiety. If I were you, I would first try a therapist to see if they can help you tounderstand how to help your child, and also, help your child to help themselves. SOme children can quickly learn self management skills with cogntive behavioral therapy. If you seek psychiatrict help, I would be cautious. Due to your bipolar disorder diagnosis, it may b counterindicated to put him on an antidepressent ( what they use for anxiety).