Does this indicate early onset anxiety in my 5 year old?

Question

My son was eating alone in the kitchen the other night after his two sisters had went to bed early. I was in the computer room working on my book when I heard him crying and called for him. He explained to me that he was just thinking about if I died and if he had to get a new mommy and said he didn't want me to die.
I have anxious thoughts like this as well thinking millions of "What if" things but wasn't aware children did this. Is this normal? Should I be worried?

Answer 1

3 of my 4 children tend to be like this. Not about everything, but certain things seem to set them off. One worries about all sorts of weather disasters, another worries if I'll come back every time I leave (I've never left her anywhere unexpectedly or forgotten her or anything like that). I wouldn't worry too much over a one time deal or certain issues that might just be important to him. And you are very important to him so just reassure him of your love, etc. He'll outgrow some of this as it's likely still some form of seperation anxiety that all children go thru.
Some at different ages and different ways and some faster than others. He was most likely thinking about how much he loves you and the thought just popped in his head.

Answer 2

I remember when I was little, and that was probably my biggest fear--being without my parents and being alone. Did something happen recently, like maybe a death in the family? Does he see this on tv? I wouldn't be worried if I were you, he just wants you to reassure him that everything will be ok. Do that, and I'm sure he'll be back to his old self.

Answer 3

It's possible he saw something on TV, read a story or overheard someone else talking about this situation. It doesn't seem likely that he came up with it on his own. Ask him what made him think of it.

Don't use this to fuel your anxiety. Promise him you're not going anywhere, then drop the subject. Unless he brings it up again, forget about it.

Answer 4

Wow. You should sit & have a loooooong talk with your son about this. He is old enough obviously to get ideas of death from somewhere & I guess he understands the concept. Where did he pick this up from? Are you terminally ill? I'd look into therapy if it persists but he might just need reassurance.

Answer 5

what five year old doesnt have anxiety..geez