is there anyone with very young kids who have anxiety?

Jennifer - posted on 07/02/2010

My 4yr old has not be "diagnosed" because he is "still so young" and "might grow out of it", but because I am the one with him 24/7 and the one who has to handle his anxiety issues I have been doing a lot of reading/research. I came across a book called, Freeing Your Child From Axiety by Tamar E. Chansky, Ph.D. that has already helped tremendously. It has helped me feel more confident in helping him and it has helped me teach him at a language level that he understands about his anxiety and start to learn stratagies for dealing with it. I've been so troubled over him, I know how you are feeling!

Maria - posted on 06/25/2010

Yes, now 11, his teacher when in k5 used to get onto him for chewing his finger tips. I am sorry, I have to quick fixes. We do therapy, relaxation techniques, distractions........ Play therapy at that age was good, now back in therapy learning ways to identify and slow down. Unfortunately last year we started medication for anxiety. Be carefull, some may rush to say ADHD, that is where early intervention with therapy is good.

Beth - posted on 05/29/2010

You aren't alone. My son is older than yours, but he has anxiety and panic disorder. He is 11 years old and he's a nervous child. He developed acid reflux and ulcers due to worrying, but he sees a Dr. and goes to counselor. I feel for you and your son. Hopefully he'll get better soon. You and him will be in my thoughts.

Melissa - posted on 05/09/2010

My daughter is on an all-natural supplement for anxiety/depression. She calls it her "no cry pill" and is doing great with NO side effects. Feel free to e-mail me at kidsfirst6@yahoo.com for more info or just to chat.

Kristine - posted on 05/09/2010

My daughter was diagnosed with anxiety when she was 4. She is now going on 9 and still struggles with it day to day. She has started counseling to help her deal with daily situations at home and school. She will be going for another assessment with a psychologist too see how it has changed and where to go to help her now from when she was 4. As children mature their anxiety changes and so does tips/tricks/suggestions on how to manage it.

Maria - posted on 02/11/2010

I hope it is getting better for you son. My son's teacher (private school) would try to discipline him for biting his nails. You can work on his environment and coping skills at this age! There are great therapist who use "play therapy" to help kids come up with coping skills. Have you had his IQ tested?

Melissa - posted on 01/25/2010

I have a 7-year-old that was diagnosed at age 5 with anxieties. She cried a lot, chewed on her shirts, was noticeably stressed during certain situations. She started with working with the guidance counselor for one-on-one help which boosted her self-esteem. I received some great tips for home and the classroom. I'm also a special ed. teacher and would love to give you added suggestions. Feel free to message me or e-mail at kidsfirst6@yahoo.com. Take care!

Michelle - posted on 01/22/2010

My daughter has had anxiety since she was about 4 and maybe sooner. I have 2 great links on my community anxiety disorders in children. I know you are sad right now but you are not alone.Your son will be ok, trust me.As he matures he we learn how to manage it.When my daughter was first diagnosed i was devestated and i cried for weeks and my own anxiety got worse. My advice is to get him help early. Good luck.

Michelle - posted on 01/20/2010

Yes. Even though my daughter wasn't officially diagnosised until she was in 2nd grade, I suppected it much sooner. You might want to talk to a psychologist. They can teach coping skills that you can practice with him at home. Good luck. We are still trying to do it with out meds. There are also several good books. I know what you mean by breaking your heart. Bri has no self confidence and she doesn't see what an amazing kid she is.