Can panic attacks and anxiety disorders begin in a 10 yo?

[guest^]

If anyone has experience with this please share everything you can.

Many thanks,
mp

[HeidiAnn67]

Absolutely!

My middle son who is now 15 started showing signs of Anxiety and having Panic Attacks at a young age. He would wake up at night in a panic that he couldn't breath (but it was just a panic attack). He was eventually diagnosed with General and Social Anxiety at age 9 or 10. He was put on medication (they changed over time which medicines he took). Last summer he refussed to take them anymore and actually has done very well without them now, but he still will have severe Anxiety over certain things (especially "doctor" related things). Getting him to the dr for a check up is a fight and one time he needed some bloodwork to test to see if he was a carrier for Thalessemia (I have a mild form of it, all his brothers were tested) and he refussed to go. I could not get him out the door, so I've put that off for now. It won't matter until he's having children anyway.

[adamanderin]

Of course they can!

I know of a boy who was having panic and anxiety attacks from a much younger age than that, and is only recently growing out of them (he's now 13).

[slvsquared]

Yes. Panic attacks, anxiety attacks, depression, etc. can all be diagnosed in children. You can ask your pediatrician about the issues your child is having. If necessary, he/she should be able to refer you to a child therapist or psychologist. These professionals are trained to work with children, and help work emotional issues out through play.

Sandi

[JillyH]

Yes - my 7 year old has shown signs - I also suffer with anxiety/panic so I believe it is genetic :

[guest^]

took her to a family doc today-new to all of us-he confirmed that she is having panic attacks-though on the phone i requested he not say the word or label her-he just gave me a look that said it all-said he was going to find a child psych. who specializes in behavioral responses.....very kind man-and i am picky-ready to fire on the spot-said he would call tomorrow....

i too suffer from severe panic attacks/generalized anxiety foir the last 7 yrs. i an't describe the extreme mommy guilt i am experiencing. i also hs, so am thinking my dc would be better off with someone else-like i've ruined my dc.

i would give my life for my dd to not go through what i have. and what if the psych person calls us in to cps? to say ia m freaked is a huge understatement.

my poor baby.my poor baby. my poor baby. :


mp

[canadianchick]

I am a CPS worker and they are not going to call CPS because your child has anxiety. My child suffers from anxiety as well and you are right, it is heartbreaking. But I, too, suffer from anxiety and I think when a child is predisposed to it and when you look at the world that we live in, it's not surprising that some kids, who are more sensitive to it all, suffer. Have you tried to find some ways for your dc to deal with the anxiety in a non-medicine way such as finding some coping skills. This has helped with dd and she is not and has not been on medication. Hang in there.

[Marsupialmom]

Yes they can. They can start earlier. I agree with it being heredity.

[guest^]

Kim-it is my anxiety that I freak about the psych person calling cps-like what the hell am i doing hsing when i have such profound problems my self yk? but ita about what you are saying-i am medicated afte trying *everything*-the only non-medical approach thing that will keep a panic/anxiety away for me is to run-which my adrenals won't allow. i am a trained massage therapist, so i have been having her practice deep belly breathing. trying to get her to talk about what her feelings are, and focusing on calming our home life and schedule down.


Later----okay, dd could not go to sleep, and was convinced she was goingto die.she was begging me to tell her what was wrong with her. in total frustration and w/o thinking, i just blurted out that i thought she ws experiencing anxiety and panic attacks. i hated for those words to be in the realm of her sense of herself, but it did relieverher to know it wsn;t going to make her die, and it led to a good discussion on possible triggers, ways we can work together and her alone to develop healthy coping skills.

but what is there to do with her? what works for your dd? my mind immediately thinks we need to cut out any extra activities for awhile,except maybe take a yoga class together. me focus on making our home more tranquil, developing a regular bedtime. all she wants to do when it's happening and afterwards, is watch tv for distraction.

please help with suggestions.

mp

: :

[eggplant]

Originally Posted by mamapoppins

please help with suggestions.

mp

: :

There are really effective treatments for child anxiety, and some big clinical trials going on now also, so if one is near you, you could even possibly get free treatment. The multi-site trial is the CAMS study, and one of the best treatment programs (cognitive-behavior therapy for kids with anxiety) is Phil Kendall's Coping Cat program. Any good therapist will do a thorough evaluation first, and let you know what he/she thinks is going on with your child, and what treatments are offered there or elsewhere.

[Naturalyst]

Originally Posted by mamapoppins

i too suffer from severe panic attacks/generalized anxiety foir the last 7 yrs. i an't describe the extreme mommy guilt i am experiencing. i also hs, so am thinking my dc would be better off with someone else-like i've ruined my dc.

Mama - you are the best mother for your daughter because you understand what she is feeling and recognized the panic attacks.

Had my mother understood the anxiety and depression I experienced as a child, I would have been spared much pain and much self-loathing. My parents meant well, but their ignorance allowed me to suffer without treatment. Worst of all, I came to see my problems as character flaws which put my self-worth in the toilet. My well-meaning parents labeled my experiences as growing pains, perfectionism, artistic temperament ... and, when the couldn't deny what they saw, they blamed themselves (which only added to my self-loathing).

Your child's condition is treatable. At such a young age, cognitive therapy can be a real help. And, there are medications available too.

Most importantly, you can explain to your daughter that what she is feeling is rooted in biology - the "fight or flight" response showing up at times when it is not needed, or overkill. I expect that what you fear most (explaining that it was likely a tendency inherited) will give your daughter understanding and peace. She won't blame herself. She'll see, in your example, that it can, at least be managed if not overcome.

My DSD suffers from panic attacks - less now than a few years ago. She had a few years of therapy and understands what it is about. Because DH and I both have "been there, done that", we spoke her "language" and she never experienced isolation, guilt, or unnecessary pain.

Originally Posted by mamapoppins

but what is there to do with her? what works for your dd? my mind immediately thinks we need to cut out any extra activities for awhile,except maybe take a yoga class together. me focus on making our home more tranquil, developing a regular bedtime. all she wants to do when it's happening and afterwards, is watch tv for distraction.

From my experience, I suggest you don't cut out extra activities - don't even suggest it. You daughter is apt to interpret that as punishment or belief that she is "less" than her peers. In fact, increase her physical activity - sports, dance ... whatever interests her where she can sweat! Physical activity is a mood elevator. Whenever anyone in our household starts getting "twitchy" (our code word), we tell someone. No one is allowed to suffer silently. That not only serves the purpose of having a sounding board for what's "real" and what's "over-the-top", it allows for intervention ... which usually includes getting out of the house and physical activity. Intense physical activity gives an adrenaline rush an alternate interpretation - KWIM?

[guest^]

Naturalyst-Thankyou so much for replying. While we have observed dd as getting very worried in the past, or difficult to live with before a dance recital for ex., this has all come on (according to the dr we say yesterday) in anticipation of a big city swimmeet. We of course told her she didn't have to do the meet. After looking back, since February, DD has been overscheduled for the first time ever. In the past, she has handled-and very much into- performance/competition. But! She is in early puberty and her awareness of herself and others and their perceptions are waay different. So! I am a little reluctant to figure in activities-but don't get me wrong-I am well aware of the hormonal fight or flight and the positive affects of exercise, fresh air,sun exposure,etc..

At this moment, we are on a waiting list with a woman who specializes/has a ph.d in child pscyh.-but that really doesn't mean a damn to me-it's all about how they handle the situation. and i am using some flower extracts to help ease the intensity.

As for meds, I am soooooo leary of putting dd on any med-much because of my own history...but crap! I can't stand to see her suffer.:

Anyway, your first three paragraphs made me cry and meant a lot to me-like there is hope. Your personal experience was profoundly helpful. THankyou.

I am going to look into the programs you mentioned eggplant!! THankyou.

mp

[Roar]

Yes, get your own anxiety in check!

The scariest thing about panic attacks is having one when you don't know what it is. There are very good non medication treatments for anxiety and there are lots of reasons to think they will work. You want to ask if the therapist can do cognitive behavioral therapy.

I would suggest you get this book right away:
http://www.amazon.com/Freeing-Your-C.../dp/0767914929

And, for your daughter:
http://www.amazon.com/What-When-You-...308962-4294808
I would also Google and find some kind of short nonthreatening information about panic attacks so she can get some idea that these are false signals. If you have a long wait to get into the doctor I would also teach her a single thing to do if she feels a panic attack coming on - it could be walk to one side of the room and count her steps and walk back with the same number of steps OR have a sudden change of scene like walking around the backyard.

If you want to try to take something fish oil is a good mood stabilizer for a lot of people and it is very easy to try. I would suggest getting Nordic Naturals or another quality brand. There can be nutritional deficiencies that are associated with increased anxiety - zinc is one example. Also, overactive thyroid can cause intense panic feelings. If she has another symptoms it is important to get that checked out.

Remember she's picking up cues from you and it is important to let her know that you are sorry she's struggling but you are confident that you can find a solution to this problem.

[Naturalyst]

Originally Posted by mamapoppins

As for meds, I am soooooo leary of putting dd on any med-much because of my own history...but crap! I can't stand to see her suffer.

Since your daughter is so young (compared to when most people are diagnosed), cognitive therapy may have a profound and sufficient effect. Therapy helped my DSD, in ways big and small, and she has not needed medication. The last time I recall her panicking was during final exams - pretty normal, I think, for freshman year at college, when she left a project until the last minute. :

DH and I, on the other hand, would offer sacrifices to the pharmaceutical gods if they demanded. I carry medication with me at all times. But, nowadays, it's just a security blanket. (I haven't taken more than three doses in the last year.) With therapy, I have become aware of early warning signs and have learned how to short-circuit the thought processes that feed the panic. Even an old dog can learn new tricks.

I'll be thinking of your family and sending positive thoughts your way.

[BelovedK]

((((hugs))))

I've been to similar places over my son and his trials.

I completely second Roar's post and highly recommend fish oil, in large doses. You can get palatable (sp?) FO from Nordic Naturals, my son is able to take them with ease.

[UnschoolnMa]

Yes they can. My son was about 11 or so.

[guest^]

Kim- I really would appreciate it if you's share what has worked for your dd when you have the time.

Roar- I've ordered the books you suggested-THANKYOU.

Because I have a HUGE handfull of AutoImmune Illnesses and I am in complete surgical menopause for two yrs(I'm only 41), I have been taking Nordic Cod Liver Oil-just 1 tsp/day. During this last winter, Iwas also giving my DC 1/2 tsp /day. Should I increase the amount for my DD???

I am on two waiting lists for Pediatric Cognitive Behavior Therapists-both holding Ph.D's.-both recommended.

In the meantime, I am not leaving my DD's side. She has had two panic attacks today, and is experiencing generilized anxiety. I am encouraging her to practice deep breathing, taking her outside-swimming,walking,etc..took her to walmart(gag!) today, but she felt anxious(well-hell! doesn't everyone there?).:

I am exhausted-to get referrals, I've had to contact two of my friends, and she was pissed at that. I tried to explain to her that I wasn't about to take her to just anyone-that I wanted the best for her-and even the best might not be up to my or her standards. Just very,very drained.

Thanks for all of your input- please keep sharing your experiences-it's really helping.

And Roar- I *AM* trying to get my anxiety under control-*much* easier to say than to do. I have a feeling you already know that. My DC's overall health is the #1 thing I panic about-next to my own health.

Many thanks,
mp:

[BeanyMama]

Hello! My heart goes out to your DD, I had panic attacks as a child also, starting when I was about her age. It is a terrible feeling and I'm so glad she's got a Mom that cares and is trying so hard to help!!
I agree with the pp that recommended mind and body excercises like yoga or art or writing. I was put on meds at about 13, the attacks stopped but so did everything else. My quality of life was not great, (of course, there might be bigger, better drugs now ) I quit taking them on my own after a year and found that what really helped was outlets for the anxiety and support from someone who greatly cares. In my case it was my BFF who I ended up marrying.
I'm 24 now and they've stopped completely, it was alot of work, but very possible! Good luck to you

[guest^]

Well, she hasn't had anymore actual panic attacks, but is experienceing much gereralized anxiety. She told me she is most comfortable swimming, or snuggled up in bed with me.

We got into one of the docs we were waiting for. She recieves her doctoral in child psych. at the end of this month. Her discertation(sp?) is on,"Parental Involvement in Their Child's Education." She holds a BS in Educational Psychology and a Master's in Child Development. I spoke with her for 30 mins-ish, asking her what she does, has she ever worked with someone DD's age with these issues(at present, she is seeing 8 other girls dd's age with the same symptoms),has she worked with HSing families(yes). She is a mother of 4 DSs,1 DD, and I grandbaby. She said she wants to talk to me first alone to get health and background history, then together with DD. I am scared. Do i reveal to her that DD hasn't left our family bed in 1 week? Do I tell DD not to mention that? DD is definitely having nighttime falling asleep issues, but once asleep,stays asleep. isn't waking up. But I am!! I haven't slept for more than three hrs at a time these past several nights, and am sooooooo exhausted-wrhich makes my own anziety issues horrible.

I thoroughly cleaned house today-hoping to make home life less chaotic-less clutter, etc.

To those of you who have answered yes. Can you please share what did/didn't work for your own DC? I would really appreciate it.

Thanks again.

mp

[Roar]

The doctor sounds really good! I love that she's worked with homeschoolers before. I hope she is a good fit for your family.

Originally Posted by mamapoppins

I am scared. Do i reveal to her that DD hasn't left our family bed in 1 week? Do I tell DD not to mention that? DD is definitely having nighttime falling asleep issues, but once asleep,stays asleep. isn't waking up. But I am!! I haven't slept for more than three hrs at a time these past several nights, and am sooooooo exhausted-wrhich makes my own anziety issues horrible.mp

I'm not sure I understand. Why would you be scared to be honest with the therapist? Therapy needs honesty both from doctor and patient to be successful. If you talk to the therapist and feel you can't trust her then you should find a different therapist. I absolutely would NOT tell your daughter to lie to the therapist. That suggests that there is something so shameful and terrible happening that she can't talk about it. What you want to encourage is your daughter recognizing that this is a process of trust. Also, if one your goals is ultimately to get her sleeping on her own then it would be a good idea to bring the therapist in on that. Also, understanding she is having trouble sleeping on her own helps give a better picture of her anxiety.

I'm wondering if there is more going on with the fear of therapy. Did you have a bad experience? If it helps when we've worked with a therapist, it is like working with a really smart trusted friend. It isn't about the therapist imposing something on the family, but about being able to help with different experiences and ideas. I think it is important that you be open to that help and not see the therapist as a person to be scared of.

Re: fish oil. Typically I've read 1000 mg as the starting dose for a kid about her age. My kid is 11 and takes 2 Nordic Naturals adult capsules which is 1000 mg. I would start one capsule for a week or two and take it from there.There are other natural supplement options for anxiety. If you can afford it, I would think about a consultation with a naturopath or something who can help you look at options. B complex is a good place to start. Some people with anxiety do well on Inositol which is sort of like a b vitamin too.

And, I know you are working on your anxiety and that's good. Have you tried meds at all? Anxiety can be so contagious in a family. And, you are totally right that not getting enough sleep is a HUGE trigger. I remember you mentioned swimming and that's great. I would encourage both of you to get in plenty of hard exercise every single day. It makes a big difference for most people. And, no caffeine at all for sure and that includes soda and chocolate.