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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Very anxious 8 year old

30 replies

Newuser82 · 12/07/2020 08:57

Hi, I’ve posted this in child mental health but would really appreciate some advice or experience.

I have an 8 year old boy. He is gorgeous and the kindest loveliest boy however we do have some difficulties which I’d appreciate some other opinions on!

He has been diagnosed with dcd and sensory processing difficulties. I do also have some suspicions about autism. He doesn’t like loud noises or busy places becoming visibly anxious (chews clothes and sticks close to me). Hates change , even to the extent of getting new furniture! Is very into history and exceptionally knowledgeable in this subject. Has never liked being away from me and have had trouble in past getting him into school (again once back part time after lockdown). Has had panic attacks in past when talking about staying somewhere by himself or when actually doing it. He worries a lot about getting told off or doing something wrong. This is despite us not putting pressure on him and always praising him for effort. He lives in a very calm environment so I’m a bit at a loss as to where the anxiety stems from and believe me myself and husband (His dad) have done a lot of soul searching about this. He bites his fingernails and sometimes scratches his skin. He is currently receiving ot for dcd and waiting to see a private counsellor for anxiety but I’m just wondering are we missing something And maybe need to get him assessed for autism? Teacher is very good with him but doesn’t suspect autism but I want to make sure we have everything in place for him and getting the right help.

Any advice or experience would be appreciated!

OP posts:
Newuser82 · 13/07/2020 16:39

Thanks everyone

OP posts:
rosiejaune · 13/07/2020 17:25

Some clinicians won't diagnose both dyspraxia and autism as there is so much overlap. Is there anything that isn't adequately explained by the dyspraxia? Which is much more wide ranging than people realise; it's not just about clumsiness.

Also praise itself can contribute to anxiety, it isn't just criticism. They are two sides of the same coin. Read Alfie Kohn's work, e.g. Unconditional Parenting.

Newuser82 · 13/07/2020 17:49

@rosiejaune

Some clinicians won't diagnose both dyspraxia and autism as there is so much overlap. Is there anything that isn't adequately explained by the dyspraxia? Which is much more wide ranging than people realise; it's not just about clumsiness.

Also praise itself can contribute to anxiety, it isn't just criticism. They are two sides of the same coin. Read Alfie Kohn's work, e.g. Unconditional Parenting.

That’s interesting to know. Yes that’s a good question. There are lots of stuff that can be explained by dyspraxia and sensory issues so that’s why the first port of call will be his ot then see what she thinks. And thanks I’ll do some research. Thank you
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Ktay · 13/07/2020 18:06

Good luck with it all. If of interest, I found ‘Autism’ by Jessie Hewitson a really helpful book.

Newuser82 · 13/07/2020 19:47

@Ktay

Good luck with it all. If of interest, I found ‘Autism’ by Jessie Hewitson a really helpful book.
Thank you so much!
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