Parents will recognize rather soon whether or not their attempts to help their child have been successful. If the sleeping problem continues for more than a few nights, if the clinging behavior does not diminish, if the fears become worse, it is time to ask for professional advice. Mental health professionals are specially trained to help people in distress. They can help parents cope with and understand the unusual reactions of their child. By talking to the parents and child either individually or in groups, a child's fears can be overcome more easily.
Some parents are reluctant to consider seeking the help of a mental health professional or a clinic.
However, more and more people are becoming aware that there is no stigma attached to seeking help. It is a way to avoid severe problem. For more information please visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency's site for children, FEMA Kids New York City Mayor's Office of Emergency Management 7 World Trade Center, 23rd Fl.