About Me

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Concord, California, United States
I am a sometimes-writer, everyday mama, creative failure and experimental cook. I am interested in living a beautiful life, spending time with my family and making things that I can feel proud of. When I'm by myself I'm usually outside. Don't bother calling because chances are that I didn't bring my cell phone because I couldn't find it. If you see me walking, it's because I lost my keys and if you see me with only one child... I'm probably in big trouble.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

GabaBun

I took Bunny Kaitlyn for her pediatric depression evaluation at our holistic doctor.

I really do feel as though Kaitlyn has actual, chemical anxiety. I don't doubt that it's increased situationally, but I also think that there's something deep within her that makes her sad, anxious and horrifically self-loathing. I have never seen a six year old who is so hard on herself. This afternoon we were talking about how she has some stress because her pencil eraser at school is broken. I was like, "Ask Teacher T for a new one..." and she said that she doesn't want to because if she has an eraser than it's as if it's okay to make mistakes. I was like, "It IS okay to make mistakes. It's even GOOD to make them."

Anyway, our doctor suggested that I give Kaitlyn a chewable supplement called GABA, which is a natural anti-anxiety supplement. I have to say, I've found it really effective.

It treats the following:

• You often feel anxious for no reason.
• You sometimes feel “free-floating” anxiety.
• You frequently feel “edgy,” and it’s difficult to relax.
• You often feel a “knot” in your stomach.
• Falling asleep is sometimes difficult.
• It’s hard to turn your mind off when you want to relax.
• You occasionally experience feelings of panic for no reason.
• You often use alcohol or other sedatives to calm down.

Outside of the alcohol symptom, Kaitlyn experiences all of these. Today was the first day that I gave it to her before school and I totally saw a difference. She wasn't particularly cheery, but she didn't cry and she didn't seem super-stressed the way she often does in the morning.

Also, to boost serotonin, I bought a big chunk of real, actual chocolate from Whole Foods. I've been giving it to her sporadically with the hope that it will brighten her spirits. I mean, if it doesn't boost her serotonin, it should at least make her feel perky!

2 comments:

  1. hugs!

    my first diagnosis was at age 4. i've been in family and individual therapy since then, both unwillingly and willingly.

    to treat anxiety, usually a combination of 'meds'(gaba in this case) and therapy is the suggested route. i would highly suggest that you look into therapy for her or as a family if and when you can.

    good luck!

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  2. Nikkol, I hear you and I really agree that's the correct route to go. I could benefit from some therapy as well. No doubt.

    Bunny goes in to visit her school counselor on a regular basis. This woman knows ALL our secrets. lol. I love her and so does Bunny. She tells me that it feels good to have someone else to talk to. My little Bun, she's sucha sweet little thing.

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