Expert: Catherine Ridenour - 9/14/2005

Question
I reside in the 60620 zip code area for Chicago.  
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Followup To
Question -
Hi, I have a 7 year old son who has been experiencing severe signs of anxiety, etc. since he been 3 years old.  However, it has become increasingly worse of the past 3 years (since attending school).  I have tried psychologists, therapists, etc. but I have been having problems with getting him in soon enough to have a full evaluation. I feel like everyone is constantly giving me the run around when it comes to this.  Do you have any suggestions on the best way to get him evaluated quicker than that of a 3-1 year long waiting lists I have been offered?  He is and has been a danger to himself.  I have expressed this to the intake couselors etc. but they are still slow in getting him in.  More recently (last week) during a fire drill he stepped out into the street while trying to get near the curb (doesn't take direction well etc, spaces out quite often, gets frustrated very easy, speach problems - expressive, etc.)  and a few years back do to this same anxiety he placed a quarter in his mouth and nearly choked himself.  I am constantly calling his school to check on him, his teachers are costantly sending notes home or sending him to the office, etc.  I am about at the point of a breakdown trying to get him seen.  

I live in Chicago, a place where resources should be unlimited but it is still taking forever to get this diagnosed.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Answer -
Hi Tracey,

I don't know where you live so it is difficult to direct you to help.

If he has language problems along with the "anxiety", spaces out and has problem with directions you could be looking at an Autitic Spectrum Disorder.  You do need an expert evaluation and I can't imagine being put off for a year or more!

Certainly, the earlier it is diagnosed, the sooner it can be dealt with appropriately.

Post a follow up as to where you live and maybe I can offer some better advice.

Catherine

Answer
Hi again,

Ok, your son must be in school. Probably second grade, yes? I assume that his condition is affecting his performance in the classroom since you mention all the notes and trips to the office.  (Quite frankly, I hope it is causing a lot of trouble because they are more likely to act.) Especially the speech delay should be evident to his teachers.

On that basis, approach the school with your suspicion this may be a spectrum disorder and ask about doing some testing.  A school district as large as Chicago certainly should have the personnel and resources to do this. They should be willing to get him started with speech therapy, at least.

Many, if not most, kids diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome or Autism after beginning school are diagnosed on the basis of tests done by the school's specialists.  These children are not affected enough to get their pediatrician's attention (though more doctors are catching on to the subtle signs) so they go unidentified until the problems surface in the classroom.

He is legally entitled to an Individualized Education Plan to teach him in the way that works for him once he has an identified learning disability, which Autistic Spectrum Disorders certainly are.

Now, if your school resists doing this, you may need to talk to a lawyer.  Clearly, there is a problem and the school is legally obligated to evaluate and accomodate children with disabilities in a timely manner.  

If, at any time, you feel your son may harm himself (you say he is a danger to himself and I don't know if you mean through carelessness or by self-abuse) take him to the Emergency Room and ask for help.  That may be your fastest way to an evaluation.

Here are a few links that I search up which may be helpful:

http://www.csasg.org/  
The Chicago Southside Autism Support Group is a parent support organization.
The mission of CSASG is to provide support and information for families and children with autism. Our group is committed to increasing awareness and improving the quality of life for our children. We welcome you to attend our meetings.

National Alliance For Autism
(312) 832-9900
501 N Wells St
Chicago, IL 60610

Hopefully, some of these folks can point you to resources in your area.

Good luck and don't give up.  
Catherine