Separation Anxiety

I have a 5 year old who seems to be exhibiting severe separation anxiety issues.  He has always been very attached to me (mom), but had been doing well going places without me.  Since late June, he has not wanted to do anything without me, (even wih his other parent, we are happily married, our family is solid) crying, screaming refusing, etc.  I have tried not to force him, not wanting to traumatize him further, but it hasn't helped.  I had a baby in December, who came 3 weeks early, by way of C-section.  That being said, birth didn't go anything like we told him (The baby will come after Christmas, mommy will be in the hospital for two days, etc), he is slated to start kindergarten in a few weeks, and is very anxious about this.  I am beside myself, please help me!

[jdtm]

Severe separation anxiety issues will probably require some intervention on the part of the parents or some other "trusted" adult to help your child at school.  Your family physician should better able to help and guide you through this difficult process.

There are many books and articles on the internet which might also be of assistance - try googling phrases as "easing school jitters" or "separation anxiety in children" or similar phrases to find more information.  But, if anxiety is the issue, I expect your son inherited this trait (probably from both sides of the family); and although the birth your your new baby did not go as planned, it may have exacerbated the issue, it did not cause it.  Anxiety can be a difficult disorder with which to deal but it is highly treatable and prognosis for early intervention is excellent.  I wish you the best ...

[margypops]

As you were away unexpectedly with the C section, he is concerned you will go away again and a lot of re-enforcment from you that you are there, will help, he is probably feeling sad as he is now getting less attention, so try to give him more, ask his Dad  to help play sports and Ball Games and use up some of that energy,you could let him have the Baby and give your son some one to one activitys just you and him.lots of care and attention will help him,

[husbano]

can i leave my one and half yr old son for further studies abroad.?HE IS SUPPOSED TO BE HIS GRANDMOTHER WHO IS JUST LIKE "A PATIENT GOOD MOTHER"

WILL HE DEVELOP ANY KIND OF DEPRESSION?
HE ALSO HAS 2 OLDER SIBLINGS
ONE IS 5 YR OLD
OTHER IS 9 YRS OLD.
CAN I LEAVE HIM IN THE COMPANY OF MY EVER CARING AND LOVING HUSBAND[THEIR FATHER]
MOTHER INLAW AND FATHER IN LAW?

PLS COMMENT
MANY THANKS

[margypops]

It would be better if the child went with you,at his age it is important he is with all his Family but especially his Mother, how long are you going away for?/The other 2 children need you around also,perhaps you should postpone the studies till they are older or study via the Internet.