Took my son to the Psychologist today

[Imahoot]

It was recommended by my son's pediatrician and school IEP team that maybe it would be a good idea for him to go and see someone. I guess I had completely forgot about this service since he has so many others that he is busy with. His autism and emotional well-being are important but I guess I was looking in so many other areas that I forgot about this one. It was good but it is so upsetting when you have to take your child in for his mental health. This is a time when they should be enjoying the world around them and having fun playing and my son is having trouble just living day to day. These feelings don't hit me often anymore but on a day like this it just all comes to a head and I realize that this has been needed for a long time. We are in this for the long run and as a family we are going to be going in and discussing things and options. It affects each and every one of us as this world of autism has affected our whole lives in every way.

It is weird but I go through each day just loving, helping, and accomodating and I forget about the idea that he is abnormal. I know he is different but he is so meshed into our lives that I somehow felt that this daily chaos was just something to be done and not thought about I guess. A coping mechanism of sorts as well as the genuine love of a mother. I am feeling a little inadequate today as a mother as well and that doesn't help things.

There will be good out of this I know. Just kind of feeling the effects of having a kid with a mental health disorder today. I am looking forward to the therapy and they have a social play group for autistic 5-7 year olds and their families. Should be so cool but I guess I just need a day of feeling a little unsure and sad before I get out of bed tomorrow and ready to concour the world again. Could also be that I threw off Jacob's whole day by taking him in and he is out of sync and he is in rare form tantrumming and obsessing.

Thanks for listening.

[5ft Diva]

Oh, Ima. You are doing wonderful. Your ability to patiently endure this is inspiring.

I'm sorry today has been a not-so-wonderful day. I can feel your frustrations through your well written post. Do they have support groups out there for just YOU? Good luck with everything. Is this going to be an ongoing thing - the taking him in thing, I mean? I wish I could be more help to you. You're in our prayers.

[Imahoot]

Thank you. I appreciate your love and concern. It will be an ongoing thing for him to go in as well as doing group therapy for social skills. It will be a great help for him and for us. The Dr. is very active with bringing the family into the picture not just Jacob. I am sure it will benefit us all and help us all to cope with the behaviors that he exhibits.

[Big_Sissy]

Man, I've been thinking what I could say that wouldn't sound ... cheap. But it just sometimes sucks. Besides, I'll see you tomorrow and we can talk further then.

Keep your head up Ima, you've been through worse and came out smelling like a rose, and I know you'll do the same with this.

[Imahoot]

Thanks Diva and BS. You guys have helped a lot and just listening to me babble right now helps. Thanks for the support from you both. I am so lucky to have friends like you two.

[5ft Diva]

Right back at ya!

[Big_Sissy]

Couldn't agree more. You know Ima, we've been through a lot, and I can honestly say, you are one of my dearest friends. I always know what to expect from you, and I don't get any surprises.

And thanks for letting me stay at your house this week. I really do appreciate it.

[Imahoot]

Yep I am predictable and you are a dear friend as well. Thanks for coming and staying....only problem I saw is that we did not get to go riding. We really need to fix that next time!

[Big_Sissy]

Agreed!

[Spaz]

Hi,

I don't know you at all. I don't know where you live. I can say I do know how you feel though. My son is autistic too. Any change is distruptive and frustrating. Everyday life itself is frustrating.

I spend a lot of my days wondering, laying around exhausted trying to gear up for the next thing as well.

Just know there are other parents out there who know how you feel. You are supported, you are amazing, you are strong, you are loving, and you are especially loved by your child and those around you that watch you love him.

God Bless.

Spaz

[Imahoot]

Thanks Spaz! Wonderfully said and I appreciate everything that you did say to me. We went through another episode on Saturday for an hour and a half. My husband handled that one and gave me a break. I don't know what your situation is but thank you for the support.