Feeling better

OK, I've had time to think and let all this recent stuff sink in, do some more research (OK, OK, obsessive online searching) and I've been able to talk to Austin's counselor a few times and here is what the plan is:

Austin will continue his weekly sessions with Shelley (his counselor) indefinitely. She will keep working with him on anger and keeping himself calm when he feels like he is boiling over. (which happens a LOT) I tried to convince him to try group therapy with the other boys she sees around his age, but right now he is still refusing. I hope (and Shelley hopes too) that with time and some more work, he will eventually be willing to do the group thing. He started on Zoloft two days ago. Not enough time has passed to see a difference, but I am hopeful. He goes back to the psych. in 6 weeks to see how he is doing on the meds and for us to decide whether to continue (I'm not one who likes to have the kids on medication unless ABSOLUTELY necessary- ESPECIALLY mood and personality-altering meds!).

I'm still kind of in shock, but feeling better. He is still the same old kid he always was. He did mention to me this morning that he is having VERY vivid dreams- not scary dreams, just ultra-realistic. I looked it up and it appears that is a possible side effect of the Zoloft. I told him to let me know if it gets to be bothersome.

I want to thank everyone who has left comments and sent me e-mails about your own experiences with this kind of thing. You have NO idea how much it means to me to hear your stories and to feel your support. I have felt so alone, my family isn't "that' kind of family, my hubby is so busy with work all the time he doesn't really get "into" the emotional stuff with me, I don't really have any real-life friends here. But that's a WHOLE other post! ;c)

And Roseann, if you're reading this, I want to take you up on your offer to get me some links and recommended reading- any little bit helps! E-mail me when you get the chance, k? Thank you SO much for offering! Mwah!