Dd age 10 worrying too much - over-sensitive? What to do?

[CocktailQueen]

Went for a walk on xmas day with 10 yo dd. she said she had had a lovely day but couldn't help worrying that it was our last Xmas as a family - that one of us would die, or we would split up. There are No issues that would make her think this. She generally worries a lot about stuff - assessments at school, etc.

I hate the thought she is so unhappy/un-carefree at her age! What can I do to help her?


I suffer from anxiety myself and also feel guilty that i have passed this on to her.

Thanks.

[Queenofknickers]

Sorry to dump and run - will be back later - my DS age 10 was just like this - 2 books helped "big bag of worries" and "what to do when you worry to much" both from Amazon. He had some CBT counselling too which really helped and now he's fine. Try not feel guilty - I have lots of MH problems myself and yes, sometimes, we unintentionally pass on anxiety etc but its not your fault - it not intentional, there is also a genetic factor and think of it this way - show has a wonderful mum who will support her and understand how she feels xxx

[mummy1973]

I don't really have any answers but lots of listening about what worries her, not saying that it won't happen but lots of reassurance that there are lots of people who care about her? My dd is 9 and goes through phases of doom laden "what ifs". Guess it is a natural stage to realise things change and not always for the better.

[Jel02]

I have used the "what to do when I worry to much" book with my own children and at work in an education setting. It's great and gives practical strategies. Also consider worry dolls. I didn't think it would work but were great. I have found that a strategy will work for a little while and then the worrying creeps back in ... Time to start again and look for another strategy as it's a continual process!