Is it time to seek Medical help.?

[bonikow]

We have a wonderful 10 year old daughter. For the past month she has had this bedtime routine where she has to check every single outlet, heater, light switch and plug (not plugged in) to make sure that it isn't too hot. She fears that if she does not check everything, the house is going to catch on fire, or something else bad is going to happen. My husband and I have been very patient with her, trying to talk her through it, but we are becoming quite frustrated. We really don't know what to do now. I am wondering if any of you wise people have any suggestions we can try!!
Thanks

[Newmom!]

I was a litle older, but I had in the back of my mind "someone might die in their sleep" so I would make sure to say a kind "good night" and "I love you" to my parents and siblings before heading off to bed. I have a feeling that type of anxiety, to a point, is normal.

However, whenever a "normal" anxiety or ritual or habit starts to interfere with normal day to day routines, then it is time to "worry". I would speak to the pediatrician (a phone call should be enough initially). He/She might be able to reasure you, or be able to refer you to a good councelor/psychologist. Seeking a professional's help may help you and your child figure out the root cause for her anxiety (maybe a house in the school bus goes past burned down). The professional can also help her find alternative ways to more appropriately feel safe without it becoming an obsessive ritual.

It might just be a phase that fizzles out in a few months, or it might not be. I'd call the pediatrician soon and get some advice. If you agree with the advice then great, and if you don't, then seek out another professional. I can only imagine getting help would only be good for everyone.

[rockyc]

Oh, I did this as a child and teenager- if I didn't, I'd find myself getting up multiple times to make sure that I unplugged something or that the radiator wasn't making suspicious noises. It's often a sign of OCD or something else in the anxiety disorders spectrum. If your daughter is finding that it interferes with her life, then yes, do seek some professional help.