Feedback on Nicky Johnston Lecture: “Go Away, Mr. Worrythoughts!” a mother's story

Nicky’s talk was absolutely awe-inspiring in regard to anxiety in children. Understanding when anxiety starts and how it presents are questions that are still being researched and analysed. As Nicky said: “you don’t just turn 12 and ‘it’s’ there”. Nicky’s story about her son presenting at, what she thinks, three years old and how it wasn’t diagnosed until a few years later was compelling listening. Nicky told us what it was like for parents and family going through the hard work of getting some help for her son, and yet what her son must have been going through at the time, I can’t begin to imagine.

Through Nicky’s talents of story telling, and the open honest communication with her media, whether it be radio or lectures, anxiety is slowly becoming more openly discussed and being made aware of in families and schools – however, there is still a long way to go according to the feedback from the teachers and parents who attended the lecture.

Two things really stood out for me in this lecture that would help parents and that was: a) talk to the teachers, whether kinder/primary or high school…get their support and understanding – it goes a long way for everyone – the child, the parents, the teachers and of course other students who can also help with support and understanding. And if you don’t get it, find a school that will support;
b) find a good psychologist/counsellor who communicates with the child, who doesn’t talk down to or dismiss the child and only wants to talk with the parents…let the child feel be heard, let them know they are being listened to, let them know that someone understands this ‘unknown’.

Nicky is a very down to earth person, who is purely in this to help others. The books that she brought along written by other authors proved that it was not about promoting herself as an author, but to sincerely provide some insight for other parents and/or carers looking for ways to understand and support sufferers of anxiety.

By Mary, ADAVIC Volunteer


For more information about Nicky Johnston visit her website: www.nickysart.com.au