Anxiety

[mmq]

  I have a 4 and 1/2 year old that has recently started crying every time she doesn't see me when we are in a social setting.  At home she is fine and happy and secure most of the time.  At any other social event outside home, she is usually plastered to my side.  If for some reason we get separated, she starts to cry.  Every time she is anxious about something, her first reaction is to cry.  I am really starting to get concerned.  I don't know what I can to do help her.  She is restless during nights.  She comes to our bedroom every night now.  She has always been a shy, reserved, clinging child, but since she started Monterssori at 3 years, she had blossomed.  She was sleeping in her own bedroom since 2 years, and never had these crying episodes.  It's been 6 months now since I have noticed this change in her behavior.  First I assumed, since it was Halloween when she first started feeling scared and didn't want to sleep alone, maybe the scary kids costume frightened her.  It's been 6 months, and it's still ongoing.  I'm thinking I need to seek some professional help.  

[jdtm]

I suspect the above poster, robrob76 is correct - probably separation anxiety is the issue.  I might suggest you google the phrase "separation anxiety and children" or "behaviors of anxiety in children" or "anxiety disorders and children" or similar words/phrases.  There is lots and lots of information on the internet re this topic with many suggestions of excellent books that are available on-line, in bookstores or your public library system.

But, the above poster is wisely prudent in suggesting that your family doctor or pediatrician be the first line of defense.  As the above poster said - her son "did eventually outgrow it a little" but if anxiety is the issue, then your daughter will not outgrow it nor will it go away.  The behaviours of anxiety will only be exchanged from one behaviour to another (eg. instead of crying the child might begin chewing things).  Although with proper guidance and intervention (and this can often be done by the parents), a child can learn how to "manage" his/her fears.  I suspect this is what occurred in the son of robrob76 (even if they were not aware of their "work").  Severe anxiety, though, will require more treatment than "parental intervention".   But, do note that if anxiety is the issue, this disorder is highly treatable, usually with an excellent prognosis.   Please write if you think we can be of more help.  I wish you the best ...

[robrob76]

i have a 7 year old who was very similar when he was around that age..constantly would cry and panic the minute he couldnt see me!
i dont know if there is any other issues with your child,as u said halloween might of been one, but my son did eventually outgrow it a little..
speak to ur doctor just to make sure there is any other medical issues.could it possibly be seperation anxiety? i know thats what 'they' told me,but you know your child better than anyone!
best of luck.