PTSD
Jenpri
Member Posts: 15 ✭
Hi All. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, and had chemo, radio and left masectomy. I have just recently had a preventative right masectomy and reconstruction. My question is, can it be possible for PTSD to develop in my now 3 year old following my most recent surgery? I thought she was oblivious during the initial treatments. But since my latest surgery, her behaviour is dreadful and her sleep is terrible. It’s totally heartbreaking and I don’t know what to do about it. Thank you
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Dear @Jenpri
Three year old behaviour can be unpredictable at the best of times - old enough to want/need/prefer/dislike and not old enough to fully articulate or comprehend same wants and preferences. Trauma perhaps but more possibly separation anxiety, a growth spurt causing sleep disturbance, or reaction to a climate of some changes to routine or the general atmosphere of the household. You’ve been through a lot and young children are very receptive/reactive to unexplained change. Perhaps time, closeness, reassurance and patience will get her over this phase. Does she go to creche or daycare? Is there anyone else with daily interaction with her you can talk to? Best wishes.3 -
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Thank you so much for your messages and reassurance. Really appreciate it xxx1
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Hi @Jenpri - I don't know your child but my experiences as a Mum plus a few decades as a kindergarten, pre-primary and Year One teacher suggest she is experiencing quite severe anxiety. If she was older she might be able to say to you, 'Mummy I'm feeling frightened because you've changed, our routine's been interrupted and its making me feel very wobbly, its like something's wrong and I'm angry because I have no understanding or control.' Disturbed sleep in a three year old is a signal - maybe call the Cancer Council or BCNA to talk this through. In the meantime remind yourself that as Afraser said, three year olds are very unpredictable - the food and toy they loved yesterday will trigger a tantrum today! Hugs to both of you!!!
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My kids played up a treat when I went through chemo..my youngest one has some anxiety issues I'm sure have been compounded buy trips to Drs and hospital..your local child health nurse may be of assistance or somewhere like helping minds and head space help younger kids and often run workshops..and yes kids are very resilient but they also can sense when things are wrong too.1
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Hello @Jenpri
I am sorry to hear that your 3 year is having trouble settling post your surgery. I have attached the Cancer Council booklet 'Talking to kids about cancer'. Its a great booklet and has age related information and some tips as to how to manage issues or find support. Take care of you and your family
https://www.cancer.org.au/content/pdf/News/2013-CAN737-TalkingToKids-NSW-lo.pdf
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