Q:
I have two grandsons, and neither of them ever wants to go to school. The third grader cries and complains that he has a stomachache every morning. He did this last year after Christmas, and now it's starting up again. His teacher suggested that he might be depressed, but I think not. He's cute, athletic and gets good grades. He seems OK when he doesn't have to go to school. Should my daughter seek professional help or just weather this behavioral abnormality for a while? She says she's going crazy.
A:
Your daughter should seek help, Sandra. It sounds like she's overwhelmed by her sons' behavior, which means she's having a difficult time being an effective mother. It's unusual for two children in one family not to want to go to school.
Stomachaches, crying in the morning and not wanting to go to school after a holiday break suggest that the grandson you mentioned in your question is experiencing anxiety. I strongly recommend that you consult with an experienced child psychologist before the problem becomes worse. Your pediatrician should be able to help you locate a reputable professional.
Kenneth N. Condrell Ph.D Child Psychologist
