Anxious child?

[Anxiouschildh]

Ds is 10 and is a lovely boy. But he is scared of a lot of things.

For example, he is terrified of spiders - can’t be near one, fixates on them, talks about them constantly. (Like if I say “shall we go on holiday to X?” He’ll reply something about spiders.)

He cries about school a lot and always has - even though there’s no bullying, he does well, etc.

Also he has a sort of nervous tick where he bites his hands over and each one in symmetry. He does this constantly.

I am a bit worried about him. Is it something to worry about? What should I do?

My family does have a history of mental health problems and I, personally, have ADHD and anxiety.

Hey, that must be difficult to deal with. I can relate somewhat as my 10 year old boy gets anxious too. Not quite to the extent as yours but will question things in detail and be cautious about anything new. He also has been diagnosed with tic disorder and has had for three years. If yours is doing a consistent movement like this then I would speak to the GP about it. I am not saying he has a tic disorder but good to check it out. I often wonder if there is anxiety linked to it but doctors said it wasn't. I'm not so sure as I think a lot of it can be psychological. Definately speak to someone who can help.

Thank you! I was unsure if it was anything to worry about or go to the doctor about.

Having said that, I contemplated finding a child therapist.

DS says nothing is going on, but I think if we sorted the arachnophobia out, it would be something else. The hand biting makes me think it’s some kind of tick or maybe mild OCD? I don’t know if I’m catastrophising!