[fran123]

My 6 yr old DS has always and still displays this behaviour. Whenever he gets overwhelmed by something he curls up into a ball on the floor and covers his head and tries to block everything out. It can happen when we discipline him, or when we ask him to do something he doesn't want to do but more of a concern is when he is in a team sport environment and if its his turn he will collapse into a heap. Does anyone know if this is a sensory processing concern? Is it something an occupational therpaist can help with or a psychologist? Whatever we are doing doesn't seem to be working.

[PB2]

HI

Just wanted to say while I do not have the answer for you, I agree that it is likely that it is some sort of sensory thing or trouble dealing with emotions ( conflict, too much excitment). A referrral to a good childrens psychologist or specialist who can diagnose sensory disorders would not go astray. Best to gethe help and guidance while he is still young and he can learn tools to deal with things when they overwhelm him.

Poor boy, must be hard for him, it is not easy as parents to watch our children going through this, but I am so glad you are following it up. The only other thing I would say is that if one psych or specialist isnt working for you try another, like all doctors, or other professions some work better or are better at dealing with particular issues or just connect better with one child etc. A mental health plan from the GP will allow you to see a pscyologist under medicare where you get a good rebate

I hope someone who has more direct experience comes along, but definatley seek help and keep on knocking on doors until the diagosis is right for your child

pb

[fran123]

Thanks for your reply. I think you hit the nail on the head when you mentioned getting a mental health plan. I just spoke with my husband and we have agreed to go ahead and see a GP. We have been hoping he would grow out of his behaviours but its time to get a bit of help.

[PB2]

HI

I am glad you are going ahead with the mental health plan. good luck. I was going to suggest you also post this question in the section with children with special needs - there are a bunch of mums there with great experience in a range of disorders etc and it might be your post raises some flags for them, or if you provide your state, they can refer you to a good psych or specialist.


It is worth chasing up as it definately sounds like something your boy needs help with

good luck