Can a child of 19 months be treated for anxiety?


Question:
My son has mild cerebral palsy and some kidney issues. I have to take him to the doctors frequently. He now has severe anxiety when going to the doctors. Is it possible for him to recieve pyschological help for his anxieties.even at such a young age?

Answers:
Talk to a developmental pediatrician about this. My son has mild CP also, and saw a psychologist at age 2. There are lots of "tests" they can do, even on a young child that can't verbalize as well as an older child.

Also, make the visits fun. Most doctors have stickers they will let the kids pick from or treasure chests. Tell the nurses and doctors about his fear and see what they are willing to do to make the visits more cheerful. I can understand if he's gotten lots of poking and prodding from the docs, then he will be anxious. Maybe take him for a treat afterward, ice cream, a small toy, etc.

When my son has an especially difficult Physical Therapy session, I let him pick out a new Hot Wheel. It's something they can look forward to and it may ease his anxiety.

I definitely wouldn't put a child that young on meds, even if the docs say it's ok. Those can have long-lasting effects on a child much worse than the untreated anxiety would.

Good luck!

Other Answers:
see your doctor

Base on what you are saying, probably not. The best you can do is be a supportive parent. Doctors are loath to give such young children medication for this without extra problems at such an age. I can't imagine them prescribing in your case. You should still see a proper Dr. or therapist on this issue, likely a therapist would be the best start. I hope it works itself out for you.




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