Is an 11 yr old child too young for Medication for relief of anxiety?

[MissQ831]

My lovely daughter suffers from bouts of anxiety.  She has been this way since she was a baby with separation from Mommy.  The anxiety is now more of intrusive thoughts she feels she can't control, and ruminating with her thoughts.  She also gets panic attacks once in a while.  She is really suffering right now and has made statements about not wanting to live.  I am very scared.  I too have suffered from anxiety and depression since my youth and am on Zoloft, which has been a life saver for me.  Is an 11 year old too young to take this type of medication?  I worry about  her having increased suicidal thoughts, as I have read this can be a bad side effect for young adults and children.  She said she really is not considering suicide, but to hear my baby even talk of it is very concerning.  Please let me know what you think.

[MissQ831]

Thank you for your response.  I just want to say that we have my daughter visit her therapist when she needs to, or wants to.  She really likes therapy.  I have also tried and still use natural remedies for anxiety and depression, such as "Gaba Calm" and tea's and such.  She says it's nice but not really helpful.  I will try the mulit food supplement....thanks for that.

[margypops]

You asked was she too young and I dont think the meds are good at any age, its great it works for you without side effects ,,you are lucky ,in my opinion that by starting her young you are in fact leading her down the same path as yourself to many years of medication, have you thought of any natural meds, and perhaps some therapy help. It is possible she has seen your own admitted anxiety and has learned it from you, it does follow in families.I would get her onto a good multi food supplement with anti oxidants Vit C B Complex...If she is having suicidal thoughts I would take her to the Doctor if he thinks she needs these strong meds he will give them to her ...