has my 4 year old got a anxiety disorder

by lindsay darby
(uk)

Hi my 4 year old has seen a child psy who has said that Libby has a high level of anxiety. She has referred her to cams but they want to rule out Aspergers. The child psy said it is not Aspergers because Libby interacts and has imagination. Libby loves routine. She hates the little things that are not in her routine She has to repeat things over and over like when I take her to school she has to keep saying “see u”,” “love u” “bye” over and over.

She thinks other children are going to take her hat or coat and panics. She loves to play on her own. These are just a few things Libby finds hard. If someone laughs at her because she said something funny she cries she does not like it. At school she will cry for very little things. I hope you can help does this sound like anxiety to you because we are going round in circles.

Hi Lindsay:

From what you are describing, it certainly sounds like Libby has anxiety. Unfortunately that does not mean she doesn't have Aspergers or some other condition as well. They are not mutually exclusive, and diagnostic categories are not absolute. I think what is most important is that you find a therapist that is sensitive, trained in different diagnosis and can focus helping her to adjust to her environment and feel more safe. I would interview several therapists and professionals in your area, until you feel comfortable with what you find.

Good luck

Kristen McClure