10 year old ‘feeling panicky’

[Lushmetender]

DS 10 years struggling recently- was thinking of death a lot. Still is but now feeling panicky. I had stages during my teen years of not feeling like I could cope but can’t believe he’s feeling this at a young age. Any suggestions or experience? I don’t want it to go on long term if there’s help out there! But don’t want to label him or dwell on it?

It's sadly common....anxiety among younger children is increasing.

I advise you to see the GP about it and also look into Mindfulness. Does he get on ok at school academically and socially? Does he spend much time online or playing computer games?

What about physical activity? Does he do much?

One of mine tends towards anxiety and we've found a clean diet and plenty of exercise helps.

Hi he does well academically and socially- the screens are an issue but he does do a lot of clubs and exercise. Just don’t want it getting out of hand as I’ve seen many friends who have panic attacks so don’t want it to head down that road if we can get him help earlier.

Marking place for similar advice.

Do the school offer any sort of counselling/mindfulness sessions?

I find YouTube to be a big source of aniexty (although they’re just watching kids playing games)

Also a regular bedtime, even on the weekends (although I allow an hour or so later on Friday/Saturday) and screens off half hour - 45mjns before bed, usually does some reading, drawing or colouring

It is very common. I remember having it when I was around 6 or 7 years old and thinking about how I would cope when my mum and dad died. I used to wait till they were busy and then go and cry. I used to do it every evening for many months. My school report at same age said "LatGatta is inclined to be over-anxious at times" although I was at school in the 80s when pretty much nothing was done about these sorts of things, even when noticed.
I eventually grew out of the tears about my parents but never really lost the anxiety bit - the severity came and went but even now as an adult, I struggle with certain things, especially being away from my home even if it is for something nice like a holiday. Only closest friends would know though. Everyone else just thinks I'm sensitive.

Anyway OP sorry to go on but wanted to tell you about my experience. I would suggest that you keep talking to your DS and reassure but where possible get him to try new things. My mum never knew about the tears etc and I really do think it will make such a difference that you are aware of your DS's anxiety. How long has it been going on?